Thesis (Ph.D.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Nursing - Department of Maternal and Newborn Health Nursing

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common reproductive endocrinological disorders with a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations affecting about 5-10% of women of reproductive years. It can be very difficult to diagnose PCOS in teenage girls as they often experience irregular or absent menses and acne. The aim of the current study was of 3 folds to: 1) screen adolescents for polycystic ovarian syndrome; 2) raise awareness of the diagnosed adolescents regarding PCOS; and 3) evaluate effectiveness of diet and exercise program in improving the clinical features of PCOS. Subjects and methods: A quasi-experimental design one group "pre/post-test" was utilized to achieve the aim of current study. A total of 500 adolescent girls were recruited at convenience according to certain criteria, with age range 17- 21 years from Cairo University colleges. Four tools were utilized to collect data; 1) PCOS Risk Assessment Questionnaire; 2) Lifestyle Assessment Questionnaire, 3) Knowledge assessment questionnaire, and 4) Follow Up Sheet for Assessing PCOS Improvement. Findings revealed that, 6.6% of adolescent girls were diagnosed with PCOS according to Rotterdam criteria 2003; The total mean of knowledge score was 17.61±11.05 in the pretest as compared to 68.87±10.55 in posttest, which indicated an improvement in knowledge level. There was improvement in the clinical features of PCOS among the subjects diagnosed with PCOS during six months of follow up visits after receiving the education program. It was concluded that, prevalence of PCOS among adolescents was 6.6% and diet and exercise educational program had positive effect on their knowledge and in reducing clinical features of PCOS. It was recommended that, early diagnosis and treatment of PCO in adolescents are essential to reduce the long-term health complications associated with PCOS

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