Exploring the attitudes towards hormone replacement therapy among Liverpool John Moores University Kerala students: A quantitative study.

Abstract

Background: This dissertation offers a comprehensive exploration of Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) Kerala students' attitudes towards Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT).

Methods: Through a meticulous analysis of data collected from 103 participants, who are from Kerala, India and currently studying at LJMU, the investigation delved into participants' familiarity with HRT.

Results: Intriguing differences based on gender were revealed. Males exhibit higher familiarity levels (57.6%) compared to females (42.4%), while females express less familiarity (56.7%) than males (43.3%). There was no statistical difference in familiarity with HRT between different age groups. This gender- based disparity points towards diverse sources of information and potential gaps in health education. The attitudes towards recommending HRT to menopausal women were examined, unveiling intriguing age-based patterns. The youngest group (18-24) demonstrated scepticism, with a notable 45.20% expressing disagreement. The 25-30 age group indicated higher agreement (44.80%), suggesting a more receptive stance towards HRT. Notably, respondents above 30 exhibited cautious attitudes, with 25.40% agreeing and 9.70% disagreeing, highlighting generational influences. The study showed there was no statistically significant difference in attitudes based on age group. The study investigates attitudes towards natural approaches versus HRT, revealing generational variations. The 18-24 age group leaned towards natural approaches (52.90% agreement), while the 25-30 age group displayed stronger favour (60.50%). Conversely, above 30, a preference for HRT (60%) became evident, reflecting evolving generational perceptions. There was significant association between age group and the attitude on choosing natural approaches other than HRT. Factors influencing HRT attitudes were analysed, encompassing information sources, cultural beliefs, personal experiences, scientific research, and media. Healthcare professionals wielded considerable influence (30.1%), indicating reliance on authoritative guidance. Personal experiences (21.35%) and scientific research (17.5%) played pivotal roles, underlining the significance of peer narratives and evidence-based information. Media and internet sources (19.9%) contributed, highlighting digital information's potency, while cultural or religious beliefs (10.7%) underscored personal value influences.

Conclusion: The results suggest that there is no statistical significance between gender and the factors associated with the use of HRT. The role of healthcare professionals in educating about HRT's benefits and risks reflects gender-based nuances. The study underscores the significance of tailored interventions for distinct age groups. The analysis evaluates individualized decision-making in pursuing HRT, emphasizing the importance of individual preferences in healthcare decisions. HRT's accessibility is investigated, with age-based variations emerging. Respondents above 30 reflect diverse opinions, underscoring the need for equitable healthcare access. There was no significance in the result. Lastly, the study explores attitudes towards more research on HRT's long-term effects, revealing differing gender-based opinions. Females express stronger agreement, emphasizing the necessity for ongoing research to inform healthcare choices. The results suggest that there is no significance in shaping attitudes regarding the requirement for additional research and studies on HRT. In summary, this study offers profound insights into LJMU Kerala students' diverse attitudes towards HRT. It unravels gender and age dynamics, illuminates multifaceted factors shaping perceptions, which can be useful for further university studies.