Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: Long-Term Health Consequences

May 2017 in “ Seminars in Reproductive Medicine ”

Temeka Zore, Nikhil Joshi, Daria Lizneva, Ricardo Azziz

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome PCOS endocrinopathy type 2 diabetes mellitus metabolic syndrome nonalcoholic fatty liver disease cardiovascular issues cancer depression anxiety obesity metformin type 2 diabetes fatty liver disease heart issues mental health disorders weight issues Glucophage

TLDR Women with PCOS have a higher risk of diabetes, heart problems, certain cancers, and mental health issues, but early treatment can help manage these risks.

The document from May 1, 2017, reviews the long-term health consequences of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), a common endocrinopathy in women. It emphasizes the increased risk of metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, as well as cardiovascular issues, certain types of cancer, and mental health disorders like depression and anxiety in women with PCOS. The review also discusses the impact of different PCOS phenotypes and obesity on these risks. It suggests that early diagnosis and treatment, including lifestyle interventions and medications like metformin, could mitigate these long-term morbidities. The economic burden of PCOS is significant, with substantial costs associated with its management. The document concludes that while the etiology of PCOS is not fully understood, appropriate management strategies can help in preventing the progression or severity of the condition.

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Research cited in this study

13 / 13 results

research The Prevalence and Phenotypic Features of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

767 citations, September 2016 in “Human Reproduction”

Polycystic ovary syndrome affects about 6-10% of women, with varying symptoms and the need for standardized global definitions.

research Comprehensive Overview of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

883 citations, August 2016 in “Nature Reviews Disease Primers”

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition in women that can cause metabolic, reproductive, and psychological issues, and requires lifestyle changes and medication for management.

Prevalence of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Its Correlation with Metabolic Syndrome

research Prevalence of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Its Correlation with Metabolic Syndrome

35 citations, May 2015 in “Arquivos De Gastroenterologia”

Women with PCOS are more likely to have fatty liver disease and worse metabolic health.

Prevalence of Androgenic Alopecia in Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Characterization of Associated Clinical and Biochemical Features

research Prevalence of Androgenic Alopecia in Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Characterization of Associated Clinical and Biochemical Features

48 citations, February 2014 in “Fertility and Sterility”

Women with PCOS often have hair loss, which is linked to acne or excess body hair but not to worse hormone or metabolic issues.

research Diagnosis and Treatment of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline

1265 citations, 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.

Consensus on Women's Health Aspects of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: The Amsterdam ESHRE/ASRM-Sponsored 3rd PCOS Consensus Workshop Group

research Consensus on Women's Health Aspects of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: The Amsterdam ESHRE/ASRM-Sponsored 3rd PCOS Consensus Workshop Group

1514 citations, December 2011 in “Fertility and sterility”

Experts agree that PCOS affects women's health in complex ways, but more research is needed to understand and treat it effectively.

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

378 citations, November 2011 in “Human reproduction update”

Experts recommend using evidence-based methods to diagnose and treat hirsutism, focusing on symptoms and underlying causes.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Complex Condition with Psychological, Reproductive, and Metabolic Manifestations That Impacts Health Across the Lifespan

research Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Complex Condition with Psychological, Reproductive, and Metabolic Manifestations That Impacts Health Across the Lifespan

926 citations, June 2010 in “BMC Medicine”

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a complex condition that affects women's mental, reproductive, and metabolic health throughout their lives.

research Association of Biochemical Hyperandrogenism with Type 2 Diabetes and Obesity in Chinese Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

52 citations, November 2009 in “International journal of gynaecology and obstetrics”

High androgen levels in Chinese women with PCOS are linked to a higher risk of diabetes and obesity.

research Abdominal Fat Quantity and Distribution in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Its Relation to Insulin Resistance

270 citations, April 2007 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism”

Women with PCOS often have more belly fat and higher insulin levels, but belly fat isn't the only cause of their insulin resistance.

Criteria for Defining Polycystic Ovary Syndrome as a Predominantly Hyperandrogenic Syndrome: An Androgen Excess Society Guideline

research Criteria for Defining Polycystic Ovary Syndrome as a Predominantly Hyperandrogenic Syndrome: An Androgen Excess Society Guideline

1744 citations, August 2006 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism”

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome should be seen mainly as a condition of excess male hormones, with a focus on this in its definition.

research Health Care-Related Economic Burden of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome During the Reproductive Life Span

414 citations, August 2005 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism”

Polycystic ovary syndrome costs the U.S. over $4 billion a year, mainly from treating related health issues.

research Revised 2003 Consensus on Diagnostic Criteria and Long-Term Health Risks Related to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

4809 citations, 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.

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research Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

114 citations, January 2014 in “World Journal of Gastroenterology”

People with PCOS, especially if obese, often have NAFLD, linked to obesity, insulin resistance, and high androgen levels.