Objective: This study aimed to assess the level of awareness regarding symptoms and etiology of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), among other health risk conditions among women of childbearing age, in Hail, Saudi Arabia.
Methods: This cross-sectional research targeted women aged 18 years and above in Hail, Saudi Arabia. Data were obtained through an online self-administered survey. The questionnaire contained two parts: an assessment of the subjects’ sociodemographic profile, including their age, marital status, and educational status; a general understanding of PCOS; and finally, the 15-item scale designed for the evaluation of knowledge about PCOS among study participants.
Results: Of the 415 women, 34.9% were between 18 and 24 years old. The frequency of women who had been diagnosed with PCOS was 13.9%. Furthermore, 80% have heard of PCOS. Nearly two-thirds (61.1%) had poor knowledge of PCOS. Increased knowledge scores were associated with being younger, having higher educational levels, being single, being a Saudi native, being a healthcare worker, having a previous diagnosis and family history of PCOS, and having prior information on PCOS and androgen hormone. Conclusion: The knowledge of the women regarding PCOS was less than desired. Older women who had lower education and had been married had exhibited a poor understanding of PCOS compared to the rest of the groups. Health education is crucial in bridging knowledge gaps.
Key words: Polycystic ovarian syndrome, women, knowledge, perception, Saudi Arabia
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