Assessment of prevalence, knowledge of polycystic ovary syndrome and health-related practices among women in klang valley: A cross-sectional survey

Abstract

BackgroundPolycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common metabolic and reproductive disorder affecting women of childbearing age. Its symptoms associated with androgen excess and menstrual abnormalities have great impact on the quality of life in women with PCOS. Data on the knowledge of PCOS and health-related practices among Malaysian women is scarce. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, knowledge and health-related practices of PCOS among women in Klang Valley, Malaysia.MethodA descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among women in Klang Valley, Malaysia using a self-administered questionnaire. Participants were conveniently recruited through online platforms. Questionnaire consisted of four sections. The knowledge scores ranged from 0-20 where < 10 was classified as poor knowledge. Health-related practices scores ranged from 10-50, with score <30 was classified as poor practice. Descriptive statistics was used to report demographic characteristics. Inferential statistics was used to report the differentiation, association, and correlations of the variables.ResultsA total of 410 respondents participated in this survey. The finding revealed that 43 (10.49%) respondents had medical diagnosis of PCOS, 11 (2.68%) were diagnosed with PCOS based on signs and symptoms, and 135 (32.93%) were suspected with PCOS. Nearly half of the respondents had poor knowledge (47.30%) and poor practice (47.60%) of PCOS. Also, 46 (11.22%) respondents reported abnormal scalp hair loss and 30 (7.32%) respondents had diabetes. Educational levels and PCOS history were significantly associated with PCOS knowledge. Respondents with healthcare related educational background demonstrated good knowledge (p<0.01). Majority of respondents (n= 328, 80%) were unable to control their diets on weekends. Married participants and aged between 40 to 45 women showed better practice of PCOS.ConclusionNearly half of the respondents had poor knowledge and health-related practices towards PCOS. Women with suspected or diagnosed PCOS should seek immediate medical help as early diagnosis and treatment for PCOS are beneficial in improving their quality of life.

Prevalence, Knowledge and Awareness of polycystic ovary syndrome: A study among the Bengali speaking Hindus and Muslims of Kolkata, West Bengal

“…Thus, there is a lack of understanding regarding PCOS due to cultural taboos and stigmas around discussing menstruation or female reproductive health concerns in an open manner. More similar kind of study also found that most of the participants had poor knowledge and health-related practices toward PCOS [22,[42][43][44][45][46][47].…”

Effect of Lifestyle Modification Strategy based on 5A’s Model on Body Image and Quality of Life among Women with Polycystic Ovary

“…According to estimates, 13% of fertile Egyptian women and 37.5% of secondary infertile women have PCOS (Ibrahim et al, 2023). Research has indicated a growing trend in PCOS prevalence since the late 1900s (Deswal, 2020;Goh et al, 2022).…”

The Awareness of Jazan Females about the Nutrition Related Effects of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

“…Another study conducted in 2021 aimed to estimate knowledge and practice towards weight loss among women with PCOS, in which a descriptive analysis was used and search engines such as Google Scholar and PubMed, it was also found that there is insufficient knowledge about PCOS and its complications [13].…”