RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH ENDOMETRIOSIS AMONG FEMALE STUDENTS AT ADELEKE UNIVERSITY, EDE, OSUN STATE.

Endometriosis is a chronic condition affecting about 10% of women of reproductive age worldwide, causing severe pelvic pain and sometimes infertility. There is no known cure, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms, but access to early diagnosis and effective care remains limited, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The condition also often leads to anxiety, depression, and emotional distress. The aim is to assess risk factors are associated with endometriosis among female students at Adeleke University, Ede, Osun State. The study was a cross-sectional study. Multistage sampling technique was used. Data were collected with semi-structured interviewer- administered questionnaire and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS 23.0). One hundred and fifty-Two mothers participated in the study The significant portion of the population has low knowledge, with 39 (25.7%), the largest group consists of 64 (42.1%) individuals who possess moderate knowledge levels. Additionally, 49 (32.2%) individuals have high knowledge levels. Education about endometriosis is seen as necessary by 37 (24.3%), but 56 (36.8%) disagree, showing gaps in awareness efforts. A significant number of respondents, 56 (36.8%), started their menstrual periods before the age of 11, which is a known risk factor for endometriosis. Additionally, most respondents, 89 (58.6%), have menstrual cycles shorter than 27 days, another risk factor for the condition. The distribution of attitudes shows that 64 (42.1%) individuals hold negative attitudes, while 88 (57.9%) individuals have positive attitudes towards Endometriosis. The data shows a statistically significant association between age and knowledge levels, with a p-value of 0.000. There is a statistically significant association between age and attitude, with a p-value of 0.000. Short menstrual cycles are strongly associated with endometriosis (p-value = 0.000), Similarly, painful periods are also significantly linked to endometriosis (p-value = 0.000), A family history of endometriosis is strongly associated with the condition (p-value = 0.000), Additionally, smoking and alcohol consumption are linked to endometriosis (p-values = 0.000), This study reveals that knowledge about endometriosis among female students at Adeleke University is generally low to moderate, with significant gaps in awareness. Key risk factors such as early menstruation, short menstrual cycles, painful periods, family history, smoking, and alcohol use are strongly associated with endometriosis. Targeted education and lifestyle interventions are recommended to improve awareness and early detection.