Exploring Hirsutism: Epidemiology, Associated Endocrinal Abnormalities, and Societal Challenges in GCC—A Narrative Review

June 2025 in “ International Journal of Molecular Sciences ”

Mohamed Anas Patni, Rajani Dube, Subhranshu Sekhar Kar, Biji Thomas George, Manjunatha Goud, Suresh Kumar Srinivasamurthy, Abdalla Ahmed Eldaw Elamin

hirsutism endocrinal abnormalities polycystic ovary syndrome PCOS consanguinity obesity lifestyle habits diagnostic tools public health initiatives

Studysummary This review highlights that hirsutism in the GCC is influenced by genetic and lifestyle factors, cultural stigmas, and lacks adequate diagnostic tools, stressing the need for culturally tailored research and public health initiatives. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.

This narrative review examines hirsutism in GCC countries, highlighting its prevalence, endocrinal factors, cultural influences, and management strategies. It identifies regional factors such as consanguinity, obesity, and lifestyle habits that contribute to higher rates of hirsutism and related disorders like PCOS. Cultural stigmas delay diagnosis and treatment, exacerbating psychological distress. The review emphasizes the need for region-specific diagnostic tools and public health initiatives to reduce stigma and promote early detection. Recommendations include culturally tailored research and advanced diagnostic strategies to improve patient outcomes and inform policy development. The study synthesizes findings from 109 scientific articles to provide a comprehensive overview of hirsutism in the GCC context.

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research A Systematic Review of the Effects of Exercise on Hormones in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

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research Endocrinology of Hirsutism: From Androgens to Androgen Excess Disorders

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research Large-Scale Genome-Wide Meta-Analysis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Suggests Shared Genetic Architecture for Different Diagnosis Criteria

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research Long-Term Response of Hirsutism and Other Hyperandrogenic Symptoms to Combination Therapy in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

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This study found that in women with PCOS, suppressive therapy using spironolactone plus oral contraceptives improved hirsutism more effectively than either treatment alone, with initial scores predicting success.

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Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Management of Hirsutism: A Consensus Statement by the Androgen Excess and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Society

research Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Management of Hirsutism: A Consensus Statement by the Androgen Excess and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Society

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research Non-Polycystic Ovary Syndrome–Related Endocrine Disorders Associated with Hirsutism

39 citations , May 2011 in “European Journal of Clinical Investigation”

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In this study, spearmint tea significantly reduced testosterone levels and improved self-reported hirsutism in women with PCOS, but did not change objective hair growth scores over the short trial period.

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