Knowledge and attitudes towards polycystic ovary syndrome

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex condition affecting about 5% to 7% of women in their reproductive years. Adequate knowledge and a right attitude play an important role in the management of the disease and in the prevention of complications. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitude of women towards PCOS. A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted in women aged 18-75 years old at the outpatient department of Jordan University Hospital. The questionnaire consisted of three main parts: the respondents’ sociodemographic variables, knowledge of PCOS, and attitude towards PCOS. There was a total of 400 participants, data was analyzed using SPSS version 23, 89% of the 400 participants were aware of the term PCOS. Most of the participants have adequate knowledge and positive attitude towards the disease. However, most of them lack knowledge on its complications. The level of education and occupation were found to have a positive association with knowledge and attitude towards the disease. Meanwhile, marital status and age were only found to have a positive association towards knowledge. Doctors were found to be the most preferred source of knowledge for further information about PCOS.