A Global Survey of Ethnic Indian Women Living with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Comorbidities, Concerns, Diagnosis Experiences, Quality of Life, and Use of Treatment Methods
TLDR Ethnic Indian women with PCOS often have early symptoms, delayed diagnosis, and need better information and support for treatment and lifestyle management.
This global survey of 4,409 ethnic Indian women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) revealed significant co-morbidities such as anxiety (61%) and depression (36%), with key concerns including irregular periods, ovarian cysts, and excess facial hair. The average age of symptom onset was 19 years, with diagnosis at 20.8 years, indicating a delay in seeking medical help. Women living outside India reported more difficulty losing weight and were less satisfied with information on diet, exercise, and behavioral advice. Common treatments included oral contraceptives (63%) and metformin (41%), with yoga (59%) and specific diets (68%) being popular management practices. The study underscores the need for timely diagnosis, culturally specific education, and improved psycho-emotional support for ethnic Indian women with PCOS.
