AWARENESS ABOUT POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME (PCOS) AMONG YOUNG FEMALE STUDENTS IN SIALKOT, PAKISTAN; A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a very prevalent endocrine disorder in women of
reproductive age. In spite of its high prevalence, awareness and early diagnosis are still poor, especially in
developing nations. The purpose of this study was to assess PCOS awareness, to measure knowledge about
symptoms, complications, and treatment.
Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional, epidemiological study was conducted among 300 young female
students in Islam Medical and Dental College, Sialkot between August-September, 2025. Descriptive
statistics and inferential analysis were used to analyze levels of PCOS awareness, knowledge, and source of
information.
Results: Respondents had good knowledge of PCOS, with 87% reporting previous knowledge and 98%
accurately attributing PCOS to the reproductive system. Most agreed that irregular menstruation is a major
symptom (97%) and diabetes a possible complication (97%). Ultrasound was identified as the primary
diagnostic method (96%), whereas lifestyle interventions including diet and exercise were seen as
management measures (97%). The internet and social media were the major information sources (65%),
while formal education and healthcare professionals had a lesser role.
Conclusion: Findings reveal encouraging rates of PCOS awareness among students but also indicate
concerns of misinformation from informal sources. Future interventions must address integrating formal
PCOS education into curricula, enhanced healthcare engagement, and health promotion among non-
student and rural populations to fill knowledge gaps and foster preventive health practices.