Prevalence of the Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Unselected Black and White Women of the Southeastern United States: A Prospective Study¹

In a prospective study from 1998, the prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) was assessed in 369 women (174 White and 195 Black) aged 18-45 in the Southeastern United States. PCOS was defined by oligoovulation, clinical or biochemical hyperandrogenism, and exclusion of other disorders. Out of 277 women who underwent a history and hormonal evaluation, 4.0% were diagnosed with PCOS, with 4.7% of White women and 3.4% of Black women affected. The study found no significant racial differences in the prevalence of hirsutism, which ranged from 2-8%. The findings indicated that PCOS is a common reproductive endocrinological disorder among women in this region.