Comprehensive Assessment of lifestyle variables in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome risk: Sleep disruptions, Nutritional intake, and Sedentary activity in Female students

Abstract

Objective: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder influenced by lifestyle factors such as sleep patterns, diet, physical activity, and psychological health. This study aimed to compare the prevalence and associated risk factors of PCOS between paramedical and non-paramedical female students.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted among 514 female students from paramedical and non-paramedical backgrounds. Validated scales, including PSQI (sleep quality), FFQ (food frequency), DSQ (dietary sugar intake), IPAQ (physical activity), and DASS-21 (psychological health), were used to assess lifestyle factors.

Results: PCOS prevalence was higher among non-paramedical students (21.01%) compared to paramedical students (13.22%). Non-paramedical students exhibited poorer sleep quality, with 8.94% sleeping less than 4 hours compared to 1.94% of paramedical students. Unhealthy dietary habits were more common, as 7.39% of non-paramedical students reported regular fast-food consumption compared to 1.55% of paramedical students. Sedentary behavior was significantly higher, with 52.91% of non-paramedical students engaging in little or no exercise versus 35.01% of paramedical students. Stress levels were also elevated in non-paramedical students (13.22%) compared to paramedical students (6.61%).

Conclusion: The study highlights the significant influence of lifestyle factors on PCOS prevalence, emphasizing the benefits of health awareness in reducing risk. Paramedical students, likely due to their education in health sciences, exhibited better preventive behavior. Implementing structured awareness programs and lifestyle interventions targeting non-paramedical students could aid in early diagnosis, prevention, and management of PCOS.