Associations of nutrition knowledge with dietary preferences, symptom burden, and quality of life in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disorder in which lifestyle-related factors are closely linked to symptom burden and quality of life. Although nutrition knowledge is frequently emphasized in PCOS management, its association with symptom severity and quality of life remains unclear. This web-based analytical cross-sectional study examined associations between nutrition knowledge, diet-related preferences, lifestyle behaviors, symptom burden, and quality of life among 330 Turkish women aged 18-45 years with a self-reported physician diagnosis of PCOS. Nutrition knowledge and diet-related preferences were assessed using validated instruments, quality of life was assessed using the SF-12, and symptom burden was summarized using an index derived from a PCOS-related symptom checklist. Higher body mass index was associated with greater symptom burden and poorer physical health, whereas regular physical activity was associated with better physical functioning. Nutrition knowledge was positively associated with healthier diet-related preferences but was not associated with symptom burden or quality of life. In multivariable analyses, body mass index remained the strongest predictor of symptom burden, while nutrition knowledge and diet-related preferences were not significant contributors. These findings indicate a knowledge-outcome disconnect in PCOS, suggesting that higher nutrition knowledge may align with healthier preferences without corresponding improvements in health outcomes. Because dietary intake and eating behaviors were not directly measured, conclusions regarding behavior should be interpreted cautiously. Public health and women's health interventions may benefit from integrating nutrition education with behavior change support, weight management, and physical activity promotion.