Abstract
Objective: To find awareness of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and effect of lifestyle modification on its management among female medical students at Hail University. Material & methods: Cross-sectional study performed at college of medicine/University of Hail, from Nov. 2020 to Jan. 2021. Female Saudi medical students (n=203) included in the study. Results: Young Saudi medical students from 20 to 40 years of age participated in the study. Maximum contribution was from 20-25 years aged group students. All academic year students participated but 2nd, 3rd and 4rth academic grade students participated more. Awareness of some aspects of the poly cystic ovarian syndrome was good like for menstrual abnormalities, it came as 85.7%, for multiple ovarian cysts 52.7%, hirsutism 43.3%, and for some wasn't adequate like weight gain 35%, acne 28.6%, and subfertility 24.1%. All students agreed that physical activity is good to control the symptoms, 56.7% mentioned regular exercise can help while 80.7% consider moderate exercise (brisk walking, jogging, cycling or swimming) as good. Similarly, students had good knowledge that physical activity help control obesity, hormonal and metabolic abnormalities and long-term consequences of PCOS like development of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardio vascular events and ovarian/endometrial Carcinomas. Conclusion: Students have good awareness for various presentations, short and long term consequences and weight reduction as first line non pharmacological intervention that help to improve symptoms as well as long-term sequela of PCOS.