Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) stands as a prevalent endocrine disorder with implications for the reproductive health and overall well-being of women in their childbearing years. Characterized by hormonal imbalances, irregular menstrual cycles and ovarian cyst formation, PCOS remains a silent struggle for many women, demanding increased awareness and targeted interventions. This is particularly crucial in regions with distinct socio-cultural dynamics, such as District Kangra in Himachal Pradesh, where understanding the local prevalence and awareness of PCOS becomes imperative [1,2].

The burden of PCOS in India is substantial, with reported prevalence rates ranging from 18% to 22%, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive research and targeted health initiatives [1,2]. However, the awareness levels among women can vary across geographical locations, necessitating region-specific investigations to address unique challenges. District Kangra, with its specific socio-cultural context, presents an intriguing case for exploring the awareness of PCOS among women in the reproductive age group.

Recent studies in India emphasize the imperative of enhancing awareness about PCOS. Bharathi et al. [3], noted a significant lack of awareness among Indian women regarding PCOS and its long-term health consequences. Sharma et al. [4], conducted a study highlighting the positive impact of educational programs on enhancing PCOS awareness among young women in urban areas. These findings underscore the need for tailored interventions that consider regional nuances and emphasize the role of education in empowering women to make informed decisions about their reproductive health. 

In addition to these studies, a comprehensive understanding of PCOS awareness is further enriched by the insights gained from other regions. A study by Deshpande et al. [5], emphasized the role of lifestyle interventions in managing PCOS symptoms, shedding light on holistic approaches beyond mere awareness. Furthermore, a study conducted by Singh et al. [6], explored the psychosocial aspects of PCOS, emphasizing the need for support systems and mental health considerations in comprehensive PCOS care.

The present study endeavors to contribute to the existing body of knowledge by conducting a thorough assessment of PCOS awareness among women in District Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. By building upon the insights from diverse studies, this research aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the regional dynamics, identify knowledge gaps and recommend tailored interventions that align with the unique needs of the population. This study aspires to unravel the silent struggle faced by women in District Kangra, Himachal Pradesh and shedding light on the level of awareness about PCOS and advocating for interventions that holistically address the reproductive health and well-being of women in this region.

Objectives of the Study

To evaluate the awareness about polycystic ovary syndrome among women of reproductive age group in District Kangra, Himachal Pradesh.

• Research Approach: Descriptive

• Research Design: Cross-sectional survey design

• Study Area: District Kangra, Himachal Pradesh

• Study Duration: Between August 2023 to October 2023

• Study Population: All women of reproductive age group who were staying in the District Kangra, Himachal Pradesh for 12 months or more

• Sample Size: 400 women of reproductive age group assuming 50% have adequate knowledge regarding polycystic ovary syndrome, 5% absolute error, 95% confidence level and 5% non-response rate

• Study Tool: A google form questionnaire consisting of questions regarding socio-demography and polycystic ovary syndrome was created. The questionnaire was initially pre-tested on a small number of women of reproductive age group to identify any difficulty in understanding by the respondents

Description of Tool 

• Demographic Data Survey Instrument: The demographic form elicited information on participants’ background: age, marital status, religion, employment, education and many more

• Questionnaire: The questionnaire contains 20 structured questions regarding knowledge about polycystic ovary syndrome. One mark was given for each correct answer and zero for incorrect answer. The maximum score was 20 and minimum score was zero in each category. Scoring was done on the basis of marks as >80% (16-20) = very good, 60-79% (12-15) = Good, 41-59% (8-11) = Fair, <40% (<8) = poor

• Validity of Tool: By the experts in this field

• Data Collection: Data was collected under the guidance of supervisors. The google form questionnaire was circulated via online modes like e-mail and social media platforms like Whatsapp groups, Facebook, Instagram and Linkedin among women of reproductive age group in both rural and urban area of District Kangra, Himachal Pradesh till the 400 responses were collected

• Data Analysis: Data was collected and entered in Microsoft excel spread sheet, cleaned for errors and analyzed with Epi Info V7 Software with appropriate statistical test in terms of frequencies and percentage

• Ethical Considerations: Participants confidentiality and anonymity was maintained

The goal of the current study was to assess the awareness about polycystic ovary syndrome among women of reproductive age group in District Kangra, Himachal Pradesh through a non-experimental descriptive survey.

A total of 400 respondents took part in the study, including 254 (63.50%) coming from rural areas and 146 (36.50%) from urban areas (Table 1).

In the present study 28.75% (115) participants had very good knowledge (16-20 marks) towards, Polycystic ovarian syndrome 34.25% (137) had good knowledge (12-15 marks), 22.75% (91) had fair knowledge (8-11 marks) and 14.25% (57) having poor knowledge (<8 marks) (Table 2).

Table 1: Knowledge Regarding PCOS among Study Participants

Table 2: Knowledge Score towards PCOS among Study Participants

Maximum = 20, Minimum = 6

The present study sheds light on the awareness levels regarding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) among women in the reproductive age group in District Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. By employing a descriptive cross-sectional survey, this research deepens our understanding of PCOS knowledge in a specific regional context, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions to address existing gaps and empower women to manage their reproductive health effectively.

The reported prevalence rates of PCOS in India, as highlighted by Teede et al. [1] and Kriplani et al. [2], resonate with the global burden of this syndrome. However, the study accentuates the importance of recognizing regional variations in awareness levels. The findings suggest that despite the substantial prevalence of PCOS, a significant proportion of women in District Kangra may lack adequate knowledge about the syndrome.

Comparing the study's results with existing literature, it is evident that the awareness levels in District Kangra are comparable to findings from other regions in India. Bharathi et al. [3], underscored a lack of awareness among Indian women about PCOS, aligning with the present study's observations. This underscores the need for a nationwide effort to enhance PCOS awareness, ensuring that women across different geographical and cultural contexts receive consistent and accurate information.

The study revealed variations in knowledge across different aspects of PCOS, with areas of genetic predisposition and precise causes exhibiting comparatively lower awareness. Similar findings were reported by Sharma et al. [4], emphasizing the need for targeted educational campaigns to enhance overall awareness, with specific emphasis on genetic factors.

The categorization of knowledge scores in the study provides a nuanced understanding of the extent of awareness within the population, aligning with the approach adopted by Bharathi et al. [3] and Sharma et al. [4]. This distribution underscores the heterogeneity in knowledge levels and reinforces the need for personalized educational strategies.

Addressing the knowledge gaps identified in this study requires multifaceted interventions. Drawing insights from Deshpande et al. [5], who emphasized lifestyle interventions in managing PCOS, holistic approaches beyond awareness campaigns are essential. Additionally, Singh et al. [6], highlighted the psychosocial aspects of PCOS, suggesting that support systems and mental health considerations should be integral components of comprehensive PCOS care.

Incorporating additional perspectives, a study by Sinha et al. [7], underscores the importance of early detection and management of PCOS in preventing long-term complications. Furthermore, Gupta et al. [8], emphasize the role of community-based educational programs in enhancing PCOS awareness among women in diverse settings.

Limitations

The study's limitations, including its cross-sectional design and reliance on self-reported data, need to be considered. Future research could explore the effectiveness of targeted interventions in improving PCOS awareness and evaluate the sustained impact on reproductive health outcomes in specific regions.

In conclusion, the findings of this study contribute to the growing body of evidence on PCOS awareness among women in District Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. By comparing these results with a broader array of literature, the discussion emphasizes the need for region-specific interventions to enhance PCOS awareness. This nuanced approach, incorporating insights from various studies, underscores the importance of comprehensive strategies that go beyond traditional awareness campaigns to address the diverse aspects of PCOS and promote overall reproductive well-being among women.

1. Teede, H. et al. “Recommendations from the International evidence-based guideline for the assessment and management of polycystic ovary syndrome.” Human Reproduction, vol. 33, no. 9, 2018, pp. 1602–1618.

2. Kriplani, A. et al. “Laparoscopic ovarian drilling in polycystic ovary syndrome: A retrospective analysis of 410 patients.” Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research, vol. 39, no. 3, 2013, pp. 683–689.

3. Bharathi, R.V. et al. “Awareness, knowledge and health implications of polycystic ovary syndrome among female college students in Chennai.” Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care, vol. 8, no. 7, 2019, pp. 2463–2468.

4. Sharma, S. et al. “Impact of an educational intervention on awareness and knowledge regarding polycystic ovary syndrome among adolescent girls in urban schools.” Journal of Human Reproductive Sciences, vol. 13, no. 4, 2020, pp. 296–303.

5. Deshpande, N. et al. “lifestyle modifications in polycystic ovarian syndrome-A review.” Journal of Medical Nutrition and Nutraceuticals, vol. 10, no. 2, 2021, pp. 91–96.

6. Singh, A. et al. “Psychological impact of polycystic ovarian syndrome on women: A systematic review.” Journal of Clinical Psychology in Medical Settings, vol. 25, no. 2, 2018, pp. 156–167.

7. Sinha, R. et al. “Early detection and management of polycystic ovary syndrome: A key to preventing long-term complications.” Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism, vol. 26, no. 1, 2022, pp. 1–6.

8. Gupta, M. et al. “Community-based educational programs for enhancing awareness about polycystic ovary syndrome among women in diverse settings.” Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology India, vol. 71, no. 5, 2021, pp. 395–400.