Diagnostic perception of polycystic ovary syndrome among medical students
influence of training
Keywords:
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, Diagnosis, GynecologyAbstract
Objective: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age, with reproductive, metabolic, and cardiovascular impacts. Despite the Rotterdam criteria, diagnosis remains challenging, particularly in medical training. This cross-sectional study evaluated 205 medical students from Western Paraná, comparing 8th-period students (with gynecology training) and earlier periods. A validated questionnaire was applied, and results analyzed using the chi-square test (p < 0.05). Among trained students, 86.1% recognized the Rotterdam criteria versus 24.8% of others; however, only 25% and 10.5% identified the diagnostic consensus. Both groups reported low frequency of early diagnosis. Gynecology training improves technical knowledge, but conceptual and epidemiological gaps remain, highlighting the need to integrate theory and clinical practice to optimize PCOS diagnosis.
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