Awareness and Knowledge of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Among Nurses at The Tema Metropolis in The Greater Accra Region of Ghana

Abstract

Introduction: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders affecting women of reproductive age, with a global prevalence ranging from 6% to 20%. Despite its high prevalence and association with various reproductive, metabolic, and psychological complications, awareness and early detection remain limited, particularly in developing countries. Nurses, as frontline healthcare providers, play a vital role in health education and promotion, making their knowledge and awareness of PCOS essential to early diagnosis and patient support. Objectives: This study aims to assess the level of awareness and knowledge of PCOS among nurses in the Tema Metropolis in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study were conducted among registered nurses working in the Tema Metropolis. Participants were selected using multi-stage random sampling. Data were collected through a structured, self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS to generate descriptive and inferential statistics. Pearson’s Chi square test and simple logistic were used to assess the association at the univariate level and Multiple logistic regression was used to assessed the strength of association at the multivariate level. Significance level was at 5%. Results: The study included 260 nurses with 11 (4.26%) being enrolled nurses, 116 (44.96%) registered nurses, 89 (34.50%) midwives, and 44 (12.40%) were nurse specialists. About two thirds 179 (68.85%) were aware of PCOS. Of this, 60 (33.6%) demonstrated high knowledge, 76 (42.5%) demonstrated moderate knowledge, and 43 (24.1%) demonstrated low knowledge on the causes, symptoms, management of PCOS. Factors that influenced awareness are the work experience (AOR = 1.44, p = 0.04), Receiving formal training (AOR = 2.33, p = 0.03) and having interest in women reproductive health (AOR = 2.71, p = 0.01). Conclusion: Although a majority of nurses in the Tema Metropolitan were aware of PCOS, a substantial proportion demonstrated only moderate to low knowledge regarding its causes, symptoms, and management. This highlights a critical need for the Ministry of Health to strengthen continuing education, training, and awareness campaigns to enhance nurses’ knowledge and capacity in managing PCOS effectively