KNOWLEDGE OF POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME AMONG PHYSICAL THERAPISTS WORKING IN PRIVATE AND PUBLIC HOSPITALS OF PESHAWAR: A CROSS- SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders among women of reproductive age, characterized by menstrual irregularities, hyperandrogenism, and metabolic complications. Globally, PCOS prevalence ranges between 4% and 20%, yet awareness among healthcare professionals, particularly physiotherapists, remains inadequate. Physiotherapists play a central role in promoting lifestyle modifications, including exercise and physical activity, which are first-line strategies for managing PCOS. Despite this, evidence from Pakistan exploring physiotherapists’ knowledge on PCOS is limited.

Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge of physiotherapists in Peshawar regarding PCOS and to determine associations between knowledge levels and demographic or professional characteristics.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between July and December 2024 among 152 physiotherapists working in public and private hospitals in Peshawar. Participants were recruited through a census approach, ensuring inclusion of the entire accessible population. Eligibility required at least six months of professional experience. Data were collected using a structured, validated, self-administered questionnaire consisting of 20 items, which was piloted for reliability (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.903). Knowledge scores were categorised as poor (≤31) or good (>31). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22, applying descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests, with p < 0.05 considered significant.

Results: Among the 152 participants, 80 (53%) were male and 72 (47%) were female. Overall, 83 (54.6%) demonstrated poor knowledge of PCOS, while 69 (45.4%) exhibited good knowledge. Gender was significantly associated with knowledge levels (p = 0.028), with 46 males displaying good knowledge compared to 23 females. No significant associations were found with age (p = 0.326), specialty (p = 0.207), work experience (p = 0.449), number of workshops attended (p = 0.963), patients managed (p = 0.10), or family history (p = 0.274).

Conclusion: The study highlights considerable knowledge gaps among physiotherapists in Peshawar, particularly among female professionals. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted educational programs, awareness initiatives, and curriculum integration of women’s health to strengthen multidisciplinary management of PCOS and improve patient outcomes.