TLDR Women with PCOS often have metabolic issues like insulin resistance and a higher risk of diabetes and abnormal lipid levels.
The document from August 1, 2015, reviews the metabolic complications associated with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), which affects 4% to 12% of women of reproductive age. It outlines the Rotterdam diagnostic criteria for PCOS and notes the high prevalence of insulin resistance (50% to 75%), impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM), and dyslipidemia among these women. The review also discusses the increased risk of metabolic syndrome, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), depression/anxiety, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in women with PCOS. It is mentioned that up to 40% of women with PCOS may develop IGT or DM by their fourth decade, and 70% in the U.S. have at least one abnormal lipid level. The document stresses the importance of screening and managing these metabolic risks through lifestyle modifications, metformin for high-risk patients, and possibly bariatric surgery for those with morbid obesity. However, it remains unclear whether PCOS is an independent risk factor for CVD.
1265 citations
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October 2013 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” The guideline suggests using specific criteria to diagnose PCOS, recommends various treatments for its symptoms, and advises screening for related health issues.
105 citations
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February 2011 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism” Treating sleep apnea in young obese women with PCOS can improve heart health and insulin sensitivity.
815 citations
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April 2010 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism” Women with PCOS should be screened for heart disease risk and manage their health to prevent it.
373 citations
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September 2009 in “Obstetrics & Gynecology” The bulletin provides guidelines for diagnosing and managing PCOS, suggesting weight loss, hormonal contraceptives, and diabetes screening, with clomiphene for infertility and various treatments for excess hair.
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January 2004 in “Fertility and Sterility” The 2003 consensus updated PCOS diagnosis criteria and highlighted increased risks of diabetes and heart disease for those affected.
69 citations
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November 2010 in “Middle East Fertility Society Journal” PCOS affects women's health by increasing the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and reproductive issues.
2 citations
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October 2008 in “The Journal for Nurse Practitioners” The document concludes that managing PCOS requires a comprehensive approach, including lifestyle changes and medication, to improve symptoms and reduce health risks.
1 citations
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January 2017 in “Spectrum Research Repository (Concordia University)” Women with PCOS have altered brain structure and reduced cognitive performance.
42 citations
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July 2017 in “Scientific Reports” Women with PCOS are more likely to have insulin resistance and obesity, especially those with the most severe type I PCOS.
February 2022 in “Mediators of Inflammation” Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) have lower levels of a substance called DIAPH1 in their blood, which is linked to changes in sugar metabolism and insulin resistance.
2 citations
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September 2015 in “Clínica e Investigación en Arteriosclerosis” Some skin conditions may increase the risk of heart disease, but are not yet included in cardiovascular prevention guidelines.
