TLDR PCOS care in Singapore can be bettered by refining referral systems, standardizing diagnosis and treatment, enhancing complication screening, and offering educational resources for clinicians.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting about 10% of women, presenting with symptoms such as acne, hirsutism, obesity, menstrual irregularities, and infertility. The diagnostic criteria for PCOS have evolved over the years, with the 2003 Rotterdam criteria being the most commonly used, requiring the presence of 2 out of 3 features: chronic anovulation, hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovary morphology. A study involving 160 participants, primarily clinicians in Singapore, found that while most recognized type 2 diabetes and infertility as complications of PCOS, only about a third recognized other complications such as depression and anxiety. The study concluded that care for patients with PCOS in Singapore could be improved by streamlining referral pathways, harmonizing diagnosis and management, improving screening for complications, and providing standardised educational materials for clinicians.
467 citations,
October 2014 in “European Journal of Endocrinology” The European Society of Endocrinology advises individualized long-term management for PCOS, focusing on lifestyle changes, accurate diagnosis, and treatments for associated health risks and symptoms.
1540 citations,
October 2008 in “Fertility and Sterility” The report concludes that PCOS is mainly a condition of excess male hormones and its definition may change as new information is discovered.
4025 citations,
December 2003 in “Human Reproduction” The 2003 consensus updated PCOS diagnosis criteria and linked PCOS to higher risks of diabetes and heart problems, recommending lifestyle changes to lower these risks.
September 2002 in “Comprehensive Therapy” Primary care is key in managing PCOS, focusing on lifestyle changes and medications like birth control and metformin.
9 citations,
July 2009 in “Journal Of Endocrinology, Metabolism And Diabetes Of South Africa” The document concludes that managing PCOS involves treating symptoms and reducing long-term metabolic risks, with lifestyle changes being important.
60 citations,
October 2014 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” Dermatologists play a key role in treating skin symptoms of PCOS like dark patches, excess hair, acne, and hair loss.
97 citations,
February 2007 in “Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology” The definition of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome may change with new research, and careful screening is key for managing the condition.
November 2017 in “Elsevier eBooks” PCOS is a genetic disorder affecting women's reproductive health, with treatments focused on symptoms like insulin resistance and fertility.
9 citations,
January 2015 in “Springer eBooks” The document concludes that managing PCOS involves treating symptoms, regulating periods, and reducing health risks, with specific medications for fertility and metabolic issues.
