Understanding barriers to treatment regimen adherence in Pakistani women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a cross sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Polycystic ovary syndrome is a prevalent endocrine disorder among reproductive-age women, significantly impacting their quality of life and increasing the risk of chronic diseases. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to determine adherence levels and main barriers to adherence to prescribed treatment regimens among women with PCOS in Lahore, Pakistan. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted at hospitals (government and private) in Lahore, Pakistan, enrolling 401 women diagnosed with PCOS. Data were collected using structured questionnaires. RESULTS: Only 21.4% of participants reported full adherence to their treatment regimens, while 50.6% were partially adherent, and 27.9% were non-adherent. Significant associations were found between adherence and socioeconomic status (SES) (χ2 = 8.98, p = 0.030) and body mass index (BMI) (χ2 = 8.28, p = 0.041). Logistic regression revealed women from upper-middle-class backgrounds had significantly lower odds of adherence compared to upper-class women (OR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.33-0.92; p = 0.022). CONCLUSION: Treatment adherence among women with PCOS in Pakistan is suboptimal. Socioeconomic status and body mass index were significant predictors of adherence, while major barriers included limited knowledge, medication side effects, and treatment cost. Targeted interventions involving patient education, socioeconomic support, and healthcare system improvements are necessary to enhance treatment adherence and outcomes in this population.