Published externally · Research article · on docfliq since Oct 22, 2026
Public Health System’s Preparedness to Address Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A Rapid Assessment Survey of Health-care Providers in India
Indian Journal of Public Health · Vol 68(2) · 180-188 · 2024 · DOI 10.4103/ijph.ijph_15_23 · PMID 38953803
- Authors
- Beena Nitin JoshiScientist F, Department of Operational and Implementation Research, ICMR National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
- Sharmeen Akhtar Shaikh · confirmed docfliq authorProject Junior Medical Officer, Department of Operational and Implementation Research, ICMR National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
- Amlin ShuklaScientist D, Reproductive Biology, Maternal and Child Health Division, Indian Council of Medical Research, India
- Mohd. Ashraf GanieProfessor and Sub Dean Research, Department of Endocrinology and Clinical Research, Sher-I- Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
- Imtiyaz Ahmad WaniScientist D, Department of Endocrinology and Clinical Research, Sher-I- Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
- Vanita SuriProfessor and Head, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
- Neena MalhotraProfessor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India
- Sarita AgarwalProfessor and Head, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India
- Abstract
Background: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders largely affecting women of reproductive age group. Objectives: This study aimed to understand the Indian public health-care systems’ preparedness in addressing PCOS. Materials and Methods: A multicentric rapid assessment cross-sectional study was undertaken among 173 health-care providers serving across various public health-care facilities in India. This study was a component of a larger task force study that aimed to estimate the community-based prevalence of PCOS in India. Information on PCOS cases reported that knowledge about PCOS diagnosis, management practices, availability of diagnostic facilities, and drugs was explored. Results: Irregular menstrual cycle was the most commonly reported PCOS symptom. Most of the health-care providers (HCPs) lacked correct knowledge about diagnostic criteria and investigation needed for the diagnosis of PCOS. Diagnostic facilities and drugs were inadequate. However, some facilities had access to investigations through public–private partnerships. Awareness programs on PCOS in the community were negligible, and PCOS cases were not documented. Training HCPs on PCOS along with the availability of specialists and strengthening diagnostic facilities were some major demands from the HCPs. Conclusion: Results suggest the need for training HCPs, strengthening infrastructure with good referral linkages, and adequate supply of drugs to help improve PCOS management at public health-care facilities in India. There is a need to develop national technical and operational guidelines to address PCOS using a multidisciplinary approach across all levels of care. Creating demand for services and advocating healthy lifestyles through community awareness can help early diagnosis and prevention of complications.
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