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Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Related to Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome Among Women with PMOS in Jiangsu Province, China: A Cross-sectional Study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Objective: To assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS; formerly polycystic ovary syndrome [PCOS]) among patients in Jiangsu Province, China, and explore factors associated with health-related practices. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 422 patients with PMOS recruited from a tertiary hospital in Jiangsu, China, between July 2023 and December 2024. Sociodemographic, clinical, biochemical, and KAP data were collected. Correlation analysis, univariable and multivariable logistic regression, and observed-score path analysis were performed. Results: The median knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were 12/20 (IQR 9-14), 142/190 (IQR 126-159), and 20/40 (IQR 14-25), respectively. Overall, 38.63% of participants had poor knowledge, 64.22% had positive attitudes, and 54.98% had poor practices. In multivariable analysis, higher attitude scores (aOR per 10 points=2.241, 95% CI 1.762-2.852) and receipt of both dietary and exercise guidance vs no guidance (aOR=3.681, 95% CI 1.678-8.075) were associated with higher odds of good practice, whereas higher body mass index and waist-to-hip ratio were inversely associated with good practice. Path analysis showed positive knowledge-to-attitude and attitude-to-practice associations, with a significant positive indirect association between knowledge and practice through attitude. Conclusions: Patients with PMOS demonstrated generally positive attitudes but insufficient knowledge and health-related practices. These findings identify health-related beliefs, self-efficacy, and practical lifestyle guidance as potential targets for future intervention studies.

Source: International Journal of Women s Health

DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s652430

Authors: Xiuwen Shi, Jingyun Ma, Xinzhe Wang, Rui Zhu, Jing Jin

Language: English

Topic: Ovarian function and disorders

Subfield: Reproductive Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,836

Funder: Government of Jiangsu Province