Publication:

Awareness about PCPNDT act among undergraduate students of a medical college in Puducherry

Background Sex selective abortions have become a significant social phenomenon in contemporary India. In order to curb sex selective abortions, the Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PNDT) Act was passed in the year 1994.

Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted by the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Puducherry among 75 medical under-graduate students. A semi-structured, pre-designed questionnaire was used to collect the information on their knowledge, attitude and perception regarding gender discrimination and prenatal sex determination act.

Results Only 34 (45.3%) students were correctly aware of the prevailing sex ratio in India. Most common source of information for awareness was internet (44.1%), followed by newspaper (41.1%), and family/friends (14.7%). Majority (74.7%) of the students were aware of the PCPNDT Act. Awareness about PCPNDT Act among female students (85.4%) was higher as compared to male students (61.8%). Only half of the students (56.0%) correctly reported about the punishment for sex determination and implication of feticide (fine and imprisonment both).

Conclusions Awareness regarding the altered sex ratio and the PCPNDT Act was poor among medical undergraduates. In order to combat the poor awareness regular workshops and continuing medical education sessions (CMEs) should be conducted.