Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Singapore
April 2022
in “
Annals Academy of Medicine Singapore
”
Studysummary This review covers the clinical features and heterogeneity of polycystic ovary syndrome and reports no new findings, emphasizing the need for further research on its complex traits and interactions.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
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.
