Date of Conferral

2022

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Health Education and Promotion

Advisor

Nina Bell

Abstract

While polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a nationwide phenomenon, African American or Black women often have little to no information on the education and support available to manage the condition. PCOS is one of the most poorly understood disorders among patients which has led to limited resources and management. The lack of education could contribute to increased risks to many health issues for African American women with PCOS. The purpose of this basic qualitative study was to explore and examine the level of health knowledge related to PCOS among African American women living in or around the Northern Region of Mississippi. Questions were asked about the health related knowledge of PCOS, symptoms and experiences of PCOS, and self-help ways to manage PCOS. Using a thematic approach, this study was designed to capture new data for the development of appropriate education tools and resources for African American women with PCOS. The major themes arising from the data concerned the importance of the following: (a) no prior knowledge of PCOS before diagnosis, (b) African American women shared similar responses to PCOS diagnosis, (c) doctors or medical professionals did not provide sufficient advice or education about PCOS, (d) African American women found online support groups helpful, and (e) more tools and resources need to be available. The inclusion of all these elements is recommended for future programs. The social change implication is that these recommendations could be helpful in developing better education programs and resources to reduce barriers and help African American women improve the management of PCOS and quality of life.

Download

Share

 
COinS