Knowledge and Attitude of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Among University Students at a Health Science Campus

Abstract

Introduction: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting reproductive, metabolic, and psychological health. It is frequently associated with comorbidities such as obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular disease. Despite its prevalence, PCOS remains underdiagnosed - partly due to limited awareness. Poor knowledge is linked to delayed diagnosis and suboptimal management. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitudes of PCOS among university students. Methods: A scoping review and cross-sectional survey were conducted. The scoping review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR framework and guided by the methodological recommendations of the JBI. A comprehensive literature search was carried out across three electronic databases—PubMed, Scopus, and MedNar—to identify relevant studies. The survey was carried out among undergraduate and postgraduate students from the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg. It included 32 knowledge items and 9 attitude-related questions. The tool was selected for its alignment with the study objectives, specifically assessing knowledge related to the pathophysiology, symptoms, complications, and management of PCOS, as well as participants’ attitudes toward the disorder. Results: A total of 2,415 titles were screened during the scoping review, from which 21 studies met the inclusion criteria. The review revealed varied and often limited knowledge of PCOS among university students. In parallel, the survey included an analysis of a total of 349 complete responses received from participants at the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand. Among the participants, 147 of them (46.7%) demonstrated good knowledge of PCOS, while 434 of them (97.99%) reported a positive attitude toward the condition. Knowledge was significantly associated with age, field of study, academic year, prior awareness, and a formal diagnosis of PCOS (P < 0.001), whereas attitude was not influenced by any of these factors. xiv Conclusion: Despite a health science background, many students lacked sufficient knowledge of PCOS. Addressing this gap through targeted education may support earlier diagnosis and improved outcomes for those affected.