ABSTRACT
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome also referred to as Stein-Levanthal Syndrome in recognition of the first two men to publish an article on the condition, is a reproductive endocrinopathy of heterogenous nature. This study aimed to assess the knowledge of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) among undergraduate nursing students at the University of Benin using a non-experimental, cross-sectional, descriptive design. The participants were selected through stratified sampling, based on their year of study, encompassing students from levels 200 to 500 of the Department of Nursing Sciences. The findings of this study revealed that 45% of the respondents exhibited a good level of knowledge regarding PCOS, as evidenced by their responses, with 68.4% indicating prior knowledge of the syndrome. While 65.8% of the respondents had low level of misconceptions showing a low degree of false beliefs. The study identified several influencing factors on the level of knowledge of polycystic ovary syndrome. Among the notable influencers, a significant portion of students (58%) acknowledged the impact of the Internet and media platforms, including YouTube, TikTok, and television. In conclusion, the Findings shows that the respondent have inadequate knowledge on polycystic ovary syndrome and identified influencing factors on the knowledge of PCOS among undergraduate nursing students such healthcare experts, integration of latest research into teaching, targeted awareness-raising campaigns, structured academic curriculum, media representations, clinical practice, and social dynamics among peers.. The researcher therefore recommends that the institution should develop targeted digital literacy programs for nursing other students to enhance their critical evaluation of online content and healthcare providers should conduct a thorough evaluation of existing awareness campaigns and outreaches related to PCOS. Identify gaps and modify strategies to ensure these initiatives effectively disseminate accurate information and dispel common myths.
Keywords: Knowledge, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, Undergraduate, Nursing Students
