Knowledge and awareness of endometriosis among women in Southwest China: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND

Endometriosis is a prevalent yet under-recognized gynecological condition that significantly impacts women's quality of life. Despite its burden, data on the knowledge and awareness of endometriosis among women in Southwest China remain limited.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge and awareness of endometriosis among women in Southwest China and identify factors associated with good knowledge.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted from February to April 2024, involving 724 women aged 18 years and older. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire encompassing sociodemographic characteristics, reproductive and medical history, healthcare utilization, and knowledge of endometriosis. Participants were categorized as having "good" knowledge if they scored ≥ 60% on the knowledge assessment. Descriptive statistics, univariate analyses, and multivariable logistic regression were employed to identify factors associated with good knowledge. A supplementary table was included to present the adjusted odds ratios (AORs) from logistic regression.

RESULTS

The mean age of participants was 32.8 years (SD = 9.4). Overall, 69.0% of participants were aware of endometriosis, but knowledge of specific symptoms, such as painful bowel movements (34.5%) and heavy menstrual bleeding (40.1%), was limited. Factors significantly associated with good knowledge included younger age (26-45 years, AOR: 1.75, 95% CI: 1.23-2.50, p < 0.001), higher education (master's degree or above, AOR: 3.10, 95% CI: 1.80-5.30, p < 0.001), being actively employed (AOR: 2.10, 95% CI: 1.40-3.10, p < 0.001), and recent pelvic or vaginal ultrasound (< 3 months, AOR: 2.30, 95% CI: 1.50-3.60, p < 0.001). Conversely, a history of abortion was negatively associated with good knowledge (AOR: 0.40, 95% CI: 0.25-0.60, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite moderate overall awareness of endometriosis, significant gaps in knowledge of symptoms and treatments persist among women in Southwest China. Targeted educational interventions focusing on less-educated, older, and less medically-engaged populations are necessary to improve awareness and reduce delays in diagnosis and treatment.