Decision Analysis Research Articles

Decision making using similarity to a reference distribution

Abstract Accepted by: Prof. Ali Emrouznejad In discriminant analysis (DA) and some methods of multicriteria decision analysis (MCDA), we often wish to assign a ‘candidate’ to one of two or more groups, e.g. ‘satisfactory’ or ‘unsatisfactory’. This requires specifying the characteristics of both groups. However, often we are only able or willing to specify the characteristics of one group, the reference or ‘ideal’ group. We propose a method for proceeding in this case, using the overlap index. This is shown to be the probability that a random variable could have come from a reference distribution. This article motivates and introduces the index, describes its estimation and computation, and illustrates its use with examples from discriminant analysis and MCDA. Two of these examples, one of choosing soccer players and another of appraising surgeons, involve managerial decisions. The novelty here is the introduction of ‘1-group discriminant analysis’ based on the overlap index, the application to MCDA and the methodology for the computation of the overlap index.

Decision Analysis Algorithm Using Frank Aggregation in the SWARA Framework with p,qRung Orthopair Fuzzy Information

The present study introduces an innovative approach to multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) aimed at handling decision analysis involving p,qrung orthopair fuzzy (p,qROF) data, where the criteria weights are completely unknown. To achieve this objective, we formulate generalized operational rules referred to as Frank operational rules, tailored for p,qROF numbers (p,qROFNs) utilizing the Frank t-norm and t-conorm. With these newly devised operations as a foundation, we create a variety of p,qROF aggregation operators (AOs) to effectively aggregate p,qROF information. Furthermore, we examine specific instances of these operators and rigorously establish their desirable properties, including idempotency, monotonicity, boundedness, and symmetry. Subsequently, we adapt the SWARA technique to the realm of p,qROF fuzzy data and this adapted technique becomes instrumental in determining criteria weights within the proposed MCDM framework centered around proposed AOs. We furnish a descriptive example to exemplify the practicality of the developed approach. Lastly, the effectiveness and soundness of our approach are underscored through both parameter analysis and a comparative evaluation.

Проблемы правового регулирования деятельности профсоюзных организаций

In accordance with the current labour legislation the problems of the position of trade union organisations are analysed. The norms of labour legislation of the RussianSoviet Federative Socialist Republic and the Russian Federation are studied. Attention is paid to the analysis of court decisions on the cases connected with public relations with the participation of trade union organisations.

Potential Utilization of Rice Waste in the Construction Sector: A Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis Approach

Effective management of agricultural waste is an important contribution to environmental sustainability and economic development, especially considering the significant volume of agricultural residues produced worldwide. Rice is a widely cultivated crop in Colombia, and its high production results in a high amount of wastes, which is often underutilized due to a lack of knowledge regarding its potential value-added applications. On the other hand, the construction industry has become increasingly aware of the necessity to develop materials with reduced environmental impact. Therefore, this study explores the application of the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to evaluate various alternatives for utilizing rice waste in construction materials; the alternatives were evaluated based on criteria tailored to the needs of local agricultural communities in the Tolima region of Colombia. The findings highlight the potential of rice husk ash (RHA) as an environmentally responsible alternative in the construction sector, offering a viable solution for waste management while contributing to the economic development of small-scale farmers.

Retraction Note: A systematic review of developments in the 2-tuple linguistic model and its applications in decision analysis

Retraction Note: A systematic review of developments in the 2-tuple linguistic model and its applications in decision analysis

Cutting-edge approaches for judging surface water dynamics in semi-arid environments: Integrating landsat 8 OLI/TIRS and HYDROSAM model

This research addresses the critical need to assess surface water dynamics in semi-arid regions of Andhra Pradesh, India, by using advanced Spectral Indices for hydrological applications and methodologies. It aims to answer how remote sensing data from Landsat 8 OLI/TIRS can be effectively used to monitor and classify surface water bodies. The study applies indices such as Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI), Modified Normalized Difference Water Index (MNDWI), Normalized Difference Thermal Index (NDTI), and Water Ratio Index (WRI). Additionally, the Weighted Composite Index (WCI) and Normalized Composite Index (NCI) are integrated with Principal Component Analysis (PCA) for multi-criteria decision making. The HYDROSAM model successfully classifies and maps various categories of surface water bodies, including non-water features (53.62%), urban water zones (37.89%), seasonal water bodies (4.32%), transitional zones (2.17%), permanent water bodies (1.05%), and river bodies (0.95%). The resultant map was validated using the AUC-ROC curve, achieving an AUC of 0.820, indicating a high level of accuracy. This methodology provides a nuanced understanding of water resource distribution and availability in the region. The findings demonstrate the robustness and reliability of the HYDROSAM model in accurately assessing surface water characteristics, thereby providing critical insights for informed water resource management, strategic land-use planning, and effective ecological conservation. This innovative methodology not only fosters sustainable water resource management in semi-arid regions but also sets a precedent for advancing research in similar ecosystems globally.

A decision analysis of cancer patients and the consumption of ready-to-eat salad.

Listeria monocytogenes is a foodborne pathogen of concern for cancer patients, who face higher morbidity and mortality rates than the general population. The neutropenic diet (ND), which excludes fresh produce, is often utilized to mitigate this risk; however, an analysis weighing the theoretical listeriosis risk reduction of produce exclusion aspects of the ND and possible negative tradeoffs has never been conducted. Consequently, this work constructed decision analytic models using disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) to compare the impacts of the ND, such as increased neutropenic enterocolitis (NEC) likelihood, with three alternative dietary practices (safe food handling [SFH], surface blanching, and refrigeration only) across five age groups, for cancer patients who consume ready-to-eat salad. Less disruptive diets had fewer negative health impacts in all scenarios, with median alternative diet DALYs per person per chemotherapy cycle having lower values in terms of negative health outcomes (0.088-0.443) than the ND (0.619-3.102). DALYs were dominated by outcomes associated with NEC, which is more common in patients following the ND than in other diets. Switchover point analysis confirmed that, because of this discrepancy, there were no feasible values of other parameters that could justify the ND. Correspondingly, the sensitivity analysis indicated that NEC mortality rate and remaining life expectancy strongly affected DALYs, further illustrating the model's strong dependence on NEC outcomes. Given these findings, and the SFH's ease of implementation and high compliance rates, the SFH diet is recommended in place of the ND.

SUSTAINABLE ELECTROREMEDIATION: AN INNOVATIVE TECHNIQUE FOR THE REMEDIATION OF CONTAMINATED SOILS

<p><strong>Background: </strong>Electroremediation is an <em>in-situ</em> technology for the remediation of low-permeability soils contaminated with heavy metals or polar organic compounds. Regarding its application, only its biotechnological processes are considered. However, it is important to consider sustainable aspects within the technologies in order to influence socio-environmental and socio-economic issues of the affected areas. In addition, a histogram must be applied to visualize some pattern of soil behavior. <strong>Objective:</strong> To determine sustainable electroremediation as a viable tool for the recovery of contaminated soils, in addition to applying multi-criteria decision-making for an evaluation of the sustainability of contaminated areas using sustainable electroremediation, through diagnostic criteria, and sustainability indicators; whose qualitative or quantitative value allows comparing results oriented at the same time on policies, strategies, actions and decision-making in the area. <strong>Methodology:</strong> A bibliographic review (1960-2023) was carried out with a focus on remediation and electroremediation of contaminated environments with a sustainability perspective. Using the PRISMA method, the information was systematized, and, with it, a scientific analysis and critique of the information was developed to make an innovative contribution to the use of sustainable electroremediation through tools and indicators of sustainability of contaminated soils. <strong>Results:</strong> A first approach is shown to the compilation of the concept and scope of sustainable electroremediation to remediate and recover areas affected by contamination, seeking social, governmental and business participation for better decision-making in the sanitation of the socio-ecosystem. In addition, a multi-criteria decision analysis is provided to develop sustainable electroremediation projects that consider the social-anthropological, ecological-biological and economic-administrative aspects for a better remediation process of contaminated soils. <strong>Implications:</strong> The determination of soil indicators is described as a decision-making tool for the evaluation of the sustainability of contaminated areas using the electroremediation technique, but it is expected that the projects achieve a legitimate interest in the environment and its recovery. <strong>Conclusions:</strong> through criteria in decision-making and sustainability indicators, they provide an opportunity to apply sustainable electroremediation as an innovative technique, whose qualitative or quantitative value allows comparing the results and, at the same time, guiding policies, strategies and actions in decision-making in the contaminated area.</p>

The Fundamentality of The Right to Evidence in The Brazilian Legal System

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the fundamental nature of the right to evidence in the Brazilian legal system, aiming to analyze its importance for guaranteeing due process and the realization of justice. Theoretical Framework: This section presents the main concepts and theories that underpin the research. Key theories include the principle of adversarial proceedings, the principle of ample defense, and due process of law, providing a solid foundation for understanding the context of the investigation. Method: The methodology adopted for this research comprises a qualitative approach, with documentary analysis and case studies of landmark decisions in Brazilian law. Data collection was conducted through a literature review and jurisprudence analysis, focusing on higher court decisions addressing the right to evidence. Results and Discussion: The results revealed the crucial importance of the right to evidence for maintaining the balance between parties in judicial proceedings. In the discussion section, these results are contextualized in light of the theoretical framework, highlighting implications for legal practice and the protection of fundamental rights. Possible discrepancies and limitations of the study are also considered in this section. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research are discussed, providing insights on how the results can be applied or influence practices in the field of civil and criminal procedural law. These implications may include the reformulation of judicial procedures and the training of legal professionals. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by exploring the fundamental nature of the right to evidence in Brazil in a thorough and systematic manner, highlighting new findings and offering a critical analysis of judicial practices. The relevance and value of this research are evidenced by its potential to influence procedural reforms and improve the effectiveness of the judicial system.

Are Hazard Assessment Methods in the Assessment of Chemical Alternatives Suitable for REACH?

The assessment of chemical alternatives for hazardous substances is an important prerequisite for avoiding regrettable substitution, and several methods have been developed in the past to perform such a hazard assessment for chemical alternatives. We investigate here whether GreenScreen, Cradle to Cradle, multiple-criteria decision analysis (MCDA), the Pollution Prevention Options Analysis System, the U.S. EPA Safer Choice Standard and Criteria, and the GHS column model 2020 from IFA use similar criteria for the evaluation of substances as Article 57 of the European chemicals regulation, REACH, and how suitable these methods are for assessing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. MCDA and GreenScreen were analyzed in detail using two different data sets. The results of the assessments show that none of the investigated hazard assessment methods use the same criteria as described in Article 57 of REACH. It was also not possible to parametrize multi-attribute value theory (MAVT), a commonly used MCDA method, to align with Article 57 of REACH by using the relatively simple objective hierarchy that has been proposed in previous publications. There is therefore an urgent need for a modified/new method that can be used in the future to assess organic substances that are used within the European Economic Area.

A GIS-MCDA approach to map environmental suitability of Posidonia oceanica meadows as blue nature-based solutions in the Mediterranean eco-region

The growing environmental risks induced by interacting climate and human-induced pressures threaten the survival and growth of marine coastal ecosystems (MCEs) and the ecosystem services they provide. Nature-based solutions (NBS), consisting of ecosystem-based approaches, have emerged as vital tools for climate adaptation and mitigation facing biodiversity loss and societal challenges. Identifying suitable environmental conditions for implementing Blue-NBS in marine coastal areas is a key priority to drive robust and cost-effective nature-based adaptation pathways. This study developed a suitability model for Blue-NBS, with a specific focus on Posidonia oceanica meadows in the Mediterranean Sea under a baseline scenario. GIS-based Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) was applied for data integration and prioritization of different environmental variables in geomorphological (e.g., depth), water quality (WQ) (e.g., salinity), and climatic (e.g., thermal stress) sub-groups. Suitability classes and scores for each variable were determined using statistical distributions, ensuring a data-driven approach to defining environmental suitability. Variables' weights were derived from the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) based on expert judgment and then combined with scores to generate suitability maps for managing Blue-NBS on seagrasses. Depth was found to be the most dominant environmental variable, with shallow areas (e.g., Northern Adriatic, Gulf of Gabés) showing higher suitability. The southern part of the Mediterranean (e.g., Egypt) reported relatively low scores for both climate and WQ, while the Northern Adriatic had the lowest WQ scores. This study represents the first attempt to evaluate Blue-NBS suitability for seagrass meadows at the eco-regional scale with geomorphologic, WQ, and climatic variables, providing decision support for the selection and allocation of Blue-NBS in different environmental settings. The resulting environmental suitability maps represent a basis for the integration of socio-economic and governance-related indicators into a more complex, multi-tier approach to support NBS mainstreaming.

Managing waste packaging for a sustainable future: a strategic and efficiency analysis in the European context

AbstractThe management of package waste has become a critical concern in pursuing sustainable development, particularly within the European context, where environmental regulations and sustainability goals are stringent. This paper presents a comprehensive strategic and efficiency analysis of waste packaging management across Europe, examining current practices, policies, and technological innovations in a sample of countries. The work identifies critical challenges and opportunities in the sector using Data Envelopment Analysis and Multicriteria decision analysis. Our findings reveal significant variations in the efficiency and effectiveness of waste packaging management practices among European countries, influenced by differing policy frameworks, recycling infrastructures, and public awareness levels. Sweden and Luxembourg excel in the sustainable and technical model for recycling, while Austria prevails for recovery in both. The strategic vision suggests an emphasis on green premium, and the most sustainable alternatives are those marked by natural fibres and respect for human conditions. The paper concludes with strategic recommendations for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and communities to enhance waste packaging management efficiency. These include policy harmonisation at the EU level, investment in innovative recycling technologies, and fostering public–private partnerships to drive systemic change. By adopting these strategies, Europe can move closer to achieving its sustainability targets, reducing environmental impact, and promoting a circular economy. So, the implications of this paper are both strategic and political. The former is related to identifying the best strategy related to packaging waste, and the latter is to uniform the efficiency of waste packaging management in Europe.

Pre-ozonation coupled with forward osmosis with fertilizer as draw solution for simultaneous wastewater treatment and agricultural irrigation

Membrane-based processes have emerged as effective solutions for treating tannery wastewater. Persistent membrane fouling remains a significant obstacle to long-term operational sustainability, and residual pollutants often persist in the treated effluent. To address these challenges, we investigated an integrated ozone-forward osmosis (O3-FO) process, with a focus on evaluating the efficacy of pre-ozonation in alleviating membrane fouling, as well as exploring the possibilities of this integrated process for the reuse of tannery wastewater. Fertilizer, specifically 2 M Ca(NO3)2, served as the draw solution (DS) in this process. The findings reveal that the integrated system demonstrated remarkable pollutant retention capabilities. Notably, no metal was detected in the fertilizer. Therefore, the integrated process not only dilutes the fertilizer but also minimizes the risk of heavy metal contamination to both crops and soil. Furthermore, pre-ozonation effectively mitigated membrane fouling, resulting in an increase in membrane flux with a maximum increase of 20.98 % at 0.6 L/min. Orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) revealed pre-ozonation has the most significant impact on four parameters: water flux (Jw), chemical oxygen demand (COD), fouling resistance (Rf) and oxidation reduction potential (ORP). Meanwhile, ammonium nitrogen (NH4-N) variation, dissolved organic carbon (DOC) variation and ORP played an important role in the four systems. Multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) showed that the 0.2 L/min O3-FO system achieved the highest score (0.66), followed by 0.6 L/min (0.53), 0.4 L/min (0.41) and 0 L/min (0.29). This research offers a theoretical framework for the synergistic integration of advanced oxidation and membrane technology in the treatment of industrial wastewater.

Determining Potential Groundwater Recharge Zones in the North Gujarat Region of Gujarat State Using Techniques of Geoinformatics and Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis

The rapid increase in population and industrialization has significantly raised the consumption of groundwater resources for domestic, agricultural, and industrial purposes. This study aims to develop groundwater recharge potential zone maps to assist in the construction of artificial recharge structures in the North Gujarat Region of Gujarat, India. An integrated approach of remote sensing (RS), geographical information system (GIS), and multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) were used to achieve this goal. Influencing factors of groundwater availability included geology, soil, lineament density, slope, rainfall, land use/land cover, geomorphology, and drainage density, were analyzed to delineate potential groundwater recharge zones. each influencing parameter was determined by using Saaty's Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method, and sub-parameters were ranked according to the AHP scale. A weighted overlay analysis tool in ArcGIS software was employed to map the groundwater recharge potential zones in the North Gujarat region. The classified results of the recharge potential area in the study area consist of excellent (9.93%), good (27.90%), moderate (17.58%), poor (3.92%), and very poor (0.92%) These findings provide valuable insights for effectively planning and managing groundwater resource development in the region.

Flood vulnerability map of the Bagmati River basin, Nepal: a comparative approach of the analytical hierarchy process and frequency ratio model

AbstractThe analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and frequency ratio model (FR), along with the integration of GIS, have proven to be successful approaches for assessing flood-prone areas. However, in Nepal flood vulnerability mapping based on GIS decision analysis is limited. Thus, this study focused on comparing the data-driven FR method and expert knowledge-based AHP technique in a GIS environment to prepare a flood vulnerability map for the Bagmati River basin, helping to explore the gap in flood vulnerability mapping methodologies and approaches. By combining all class-weighted contributing factors, like elevation, precipitation, flow accumulation, drainage density, soil, distance from the river, land use land cover, normalized difference vegetative index, slope and topographic wetness index, the study evaluated the efficiency of FR and AHP in assessing flood vulnerability maps. An inventory map of floods containing 107 flood points was created. Subsequently, the flood vulnerability maps generated using FR and AHP models revealed that 9.30% and 11.36% of regions were in highly vulnerable areas, respectively. Receiver operating characteristics validated the model outcomes, indicating that the FR model’s accuracy of 91% outperformed the AHP model’s 84% accuracy. The study findings will assist decision-makers in enacting sustainable management techniques to reduce future damage in the Bagmati basin.

Effectiveness of Law No. 5 of 1999 in Handling Cross-Border Business Competition

This paper examines the issues of business competition in an extraterritorial context and its implications for the authority of the Indonesian Business Competition Supervisory Commission (KPPU). The research focuses on the extent to which the KPPU can enforce its duties beyond the borders of Indonesia, particularly concerning the effective application of Law No. 5 of 1999. Analysis of KPPU's decisions in extraterritorial cases, especially those involving share acquisitions, provides insights into the approaches and solutions adopted. The study aims to foster discussion on the role of KPPU in addressing extraterritorial challenges, along with the application of international cooperation and principles of international law in enforcing competition law. The research findings are expected to offer recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of KPPU's enforcement of competition law in a global context.

Spatial analysis and mapping of malaria endemic-prone areas using environmental risk factors and spatial multi criteria decision analysis in the Northern Zone of Plateau State, Nigeria.

Compressive mapping and in-depth analysis of malaria vulnerability risk foci are important tools for strategic planning, vector surveillance, implementing necessary interventions, and managing scarce resources to combat the daunting challenges of malaria infections in Nigeria. The study utilized environmental risk factors and spatial multi-criteria decision analysis techniques to analyze and map the spatial variations in malaria-endemic prone areas within the Northern Zone of Plateau State. Analysis of the criteria's weights of environmental risk factors and the stratification of the malaria risk vulnerability revealed that high-risk areas covered a total of 4017.25 Km2, while low-risk areas covered 1294.83Km2, having a close resemblance to the corresponding ground conditions. The results showed that a significant 60% of the study areas were characterized by high risk of malaria transmission, particularly in most settlements around the Jos North, Jos South and Barkin Ladi Local Government Areas. The malaria risk map's predictive abilities demonstrated a high level of accuracy, as indicated by the area under the curve score of 0.989. Furthermore, the risk map demonstrates a high-performance rate in identifying malaria hotspots, with a sensitivity of 98%, a proficiency rate of 54%, and a statistical significance confidence level ranging from 90% to 99% for identifying malaria hotspots and coldspots. The malaria risk analysis and mapping within the endemic prone areas of the Northern Zone of Plateau State not only equips policymakers with effective tools for identifying malaria foci but also offers a deeper comprehension of the appropriate intervention measures to be implemented.

Generalized Parametric Fuzzy Information Measure

Objective: To generalize an existing fuzzy information measure and verify its important properties. Methods: Both objective and descriptive methods have been adopted; problem-solving and problem-posing methods have been used. A collection of properties presented by De Luca and Termini is used as a standard for establishing new fuzzy information measures. Findings: This study has analysed the different features of the parametric measure of fuzzy information that we have presented. The suggested fuzzy entropy measure is a legitimate measure of fuzzy information since it meets all necessary requirements. Its monotonic behaviour has also been studied. Comparisons between the proposed measure of fuzzy information and the corresponding measure of probabilistic information have been discussed. Novelty: The unique quality of the suggested fuzzy information measure is found in its monotonic behaviour corresponding to parameter α. When conducting a multicriteria decision analysis and directing the decision-making process, monotonic fuzzy information measures are more useful. Because the suggested measure satisfies fundamental set features, it can be applied in soft computing for economics, decision-making, and data aggregation. Mathematics Subject Classification: 94 D 05 Keywords: Fuzzy Entropy, Uncertainty, Fuzziness, Measures of Information, Shannon Entropy

Research on Decision-Making and Control Technology for Hydraulic Supports Based on Digital Twins

To further enhance the intelligent construction of coal mines and improve the control accuracy of hydraulic support displacement straightness, a digital twin control method for hydraulic support displacement has been proposed. First, a dataset related to hydraulic support is established, and a ridge regression prediction model is developed to achieve digital twin-based displacement decision analysis. Next, by analyzing the mechanical structure and displacement principles of the hydraulic supports, a hydraulic cylinder mathematics model is established, leading to the state-space representation of the controlled object. This study focuses on error control during the multi-agent operation of the hydraulic supports, designing a corresponding controller and using discretization methods to verify the consistency of output displacement between followers and leaders. Finally, simulation experiments based on the digital twin model of hydraulic supports are conducted, validating that the hydraulic supports can be controlled in formation according to actual production requirements. The digital twin control method enables the precise adaptive displacement control of hydraulic supports and provides valuable insights for the intelligent construction of mining faces.

7956 Assessing Factors Influencing Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Using Hybrid Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis

Abstract Disclosure: N.B. Trivedi: None. J. Amin: None. M. Patel: None. S. Patel: None. P. Rana: None. A. Rajani: None. V. Dave: None. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal disorder having multifactorial origins. This study aims to apply Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) methods like Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) and Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) to prioritize factors influencing PCOS. In our study, 10 criteria impacting PCOS were identified through extensive literature review. AHP and DEMATEL were used via matrices, assessed by 13 experts. AHP determined relative importance/weights while DEMATEL assessed interconnectedness among criteria. AHP revealed that family history held the highest weight (0.22) while Insulin resistance held the lowest weight at 0.04. The results obtained from DEMATEL indicated that factors like obesity, insulin resistance, diet, psychological stress and sedentary lifestyle displayed higher D+R values, suggesting a strong influence on other factors; indicating their significant impact on the syndrome. The division of criteria into cause and effect groups based on D-R values revealed that family history, environmental factors, diet, sedentary lifestyle and psychological stress appear to be causative and sleep disturbances, low-grade inflammation, excess androgen and insulin resistance seem to be the consequences of PCOS. In AHP the criteria are treated as being independent to each other and their hierarchal order is determined. However, in realistic scenarios factors may have some sort of interdependency/relationship with one another. To identify that interdependency which AHP fails to focus on, DEMATEL was used. DEMATEL ensues that Insulin resistance along with obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and psychological stress show strong level of influence and interconnectedness, indicating a significant impact on the syndrome. However, insulin resistance, when treated as an independent criterion in AHP, displays lower weightage. In the end, improved PCOD treatment would come from targeted interventions and strategies that centre on the variables with a higher D+R value. When the criteria were considered independent of each other in AHP, highest weight is conferred to family history (despite of it having moderately low level of influence/interconnectedness on other criteria as ensued from DEMATEL) thus prompting more research in the direction of investigating genetic and familial factors associated with PCOS. This could consequently lead to early diagnosis and effective long term management. The combined methodology (DEMATEL+AHP) ensures comprehensive assessment of PCOS factors. Previous studies might have focused on individual factors separately or failed to adequately explore their interrelationships and relative importance. MCDA can be further employed in healthcare to assess conflicting treatment modalities, risk factors etc. for other multifactorial disorders. Presentation: 6/2/2024