The Race for Diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (2024)

FAQs

Which race is most affected by PCOS? ›

Hispanic women with PCOS have the most severe phenotype, both in terms of hyperandrogenism and metabolic criteria. Non-Hispanic Black women have an overall milder polycystic ovarian syndrome phenotype than Hispanics and in some respects, than Non-Hispanic White women.

Women and people AFAB can get PCOS any time after puberty. Most people are diagnosed in their 20s or 30s when they're trying to get pregnant. You may have a higher chance of getting PCOS if you have obesity or if other people in your biological family have PCOS.

Who gets PCOS? Between 5% and 10% of women between 15 and 44, or during the years you can have children, have PCOS. Most women find out they have PCOS in their 20s and 30s, when they have problems getting pregnant and see their doctor. But PCOS can happen at any age after puberty.

To receive a diagnosis of PCOS, you must meet two of the following criteria: irregular ovulation, which is usually indicated by an irregular menstrual cycle or a lack of a cycle. signs of increased androgen levels or a blood test confirming you have increased levels. multiple small cysts on the ovaries.

The age-standardised annual incidence rate of PCOS also varied substantially by country. In 2019, Kuwait [108.6 (95% UI: 71.7 to 151.4)], Qatar [105.1 (95% UI: 68.0 to 147.9)] and Saudi Arabia [103.0 (95% UI: 66.9 to 143.0)] had the highest age-standardised annual incidence rates.

At the 2023 Endocrine Society International meeting, the rise in numbers was confirmed. “Another determinant can be there is more awareness as to clinical signs and symptoms and appropriate workups in countries where PCOS was not so readily diagnosed [in the past] due to a lack of resources,” says Dr.

Research has shown that genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of PCOS, but its exact cause remains unknown. The symptoms of PCOS tend to run in families, so genetics have long been a focus of PCOS research.

What does PCOS belly look like? PCOS belly is characterized by excess fat accumulation around the abdominal area, often resulting in a distinctive body shape commonly referred to as an “apple shape.” Some people feel as though their abdomen feels larger in proportion to the rest of their body.

Recent studies have shown that women who were diagnosed as having PCOS 30 years ago have a completely normal life expectancy. An inspection of more than 700 death certificates from women with PCOS has shown that there is no excess risk of cancer in any organ or of heart disease.

Sasha Pieterse

The Pretty Little Liars actress has been open about living with PCOS while also living in the public eye — she's also shared that her case became dormant after she gave birth to her son. "I never had a regular period ever and I was just always told by gynecologists that I was just young.

Can PCOS be reversed? ›

Although PCOS is not completely reversible, there are a number of treatments that can reduce or minimize bothersome symptoms. Most females with PCOS are able to lead a normal life without significant complications. Reproductive system abnormalities — The cause of PCOS is not completely understood.

The focus is on adopting the “Four Pillars” of a healthy lifestyle including but not limited to a balanced diet that limits carbohydrate intake, a combination of strength training and cardiovascular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and reducing stress which includes getting enough quality sleep.

There is currently no cure for PCOS. Management will differ depending on the most bothersome symptoms and on a woman's desire to become pregnant. For women who are not seeking pregnancy, treatment will likely focus on correcting or harnessing the underlying hormonal imbalances.

The diagnostic criteria for PCOS should include two of the following three criteria: chronic anovulation, hyperandrogenism (clinical/biologic), and polycystic ovaries.

It is estimated that 20 to 40 percent of women with polycystic ovary syndrome have an affected mother or sister. This increased familial risk is likely due in part to shared genetic factors, but lifestyle influences that are shared by members of a family likely also play a role.

Risk Factors for PCOS

People who are overweight, have unhealthy eating habits, don't get enough exercise, or have a family history of diabetes may be at risk for insulin resistance. Obesity or overweight: Having a higher weight has been linked to PCOS.

PCOS doesn't itself increase your chances of twins, however some fertility treatments that you might have as a result of your PCOS, could increase your chances of twins.

World PCOS Day is September 1 and marks the start of PCOS Awareness Month. If you see an abundance of teal in September, note that it is the awareness color for the condition.