Graduation Year
2025
Document Type
Senior Thesis
Degree
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Primary Major
Nursing
Thesis Advisor
Deborah Meshel, BSN, MSN
Abstract
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common metabolic endocrine condition with symptoms that severely impair women's physical and reproductive health. However, individuals with PCOS, especially Asian American women, lack sufficient understanding of non-pharmacological symptom management options, such as dietary and lifestyle modifications. This research proposal explores whether culturally appropriate nutrition education can help manage PCOS symptoms and lessen the need for medical management. The literature critique focuses on addressing the knowledge gap regarding treatment management among women diagnosed with PCOS, health risks related to PCOS, ethnic differences, and nutrition. This proposal investigates the impact of a dietary education program tailored to align with traditional Asian eating patterns to help manage PCOS symptoms, grounded in the Health Belief Model (HBM). According to the HBM paradigm, people are more likely to adopt health behaviors, such as dietary modifications, when they realize their vulnerability to health problems, understand the benefits of taking action, and feel supported in overcoming hurdles. The study's findings aim to encourage culturally sensitive nursing methods while also empowering women to control PCOS symptoms through realistic and culturally relevant dietary changes.