Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome in the Family Members of Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome from North India

The study conducted on 37 North Indian women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and their first-degree relatives between January 2009 and May 2010 found a high prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MS) among the family members. Using the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria, MS was detected in 27% of the women with PCOS, 85% of their mothers, 65% of their fathers, 19% of their sisters, and 6% of their brothers. According to the Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III) criteria, the prevalence was 22% in women with PCOS, 80% in mothers, 56% in fathers, and 25% in sisters, with no cases in brothers. Dyslipidemia was the most common metabolic abnormality, and hyperandrogenism, such as premature balding, was observed in 73.7% of brothers and 73.9% of fathers. The study concluded that MS and its components are prevalent in the family members of women with PCOS, suggesting a genetic susceptibility and the need for further research and preventive measures.