Description:
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or PCOS is a prevalent health condition impacting women in their reproductive years (15-49 years), with a reported global prevalence ranging from 4% to 20% (affecting approximately 8 to 40 crore women worldwide). In India, the prevalence is notably high, reportedly ranging from 3.7% to 22.5% (impacting about 1.3 to 7.9 crore women).
In fact, a recent Gynoveda's survey with 3 lakh Indian women aged 18-45 reveals 70% face menstrual health issues, notably PCOS, significantly impacting fertility and quality of life. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Ruchita Singh, Gynaecologist at HCL Healthcare, shared, “Characterised by hormonal imbalances, irregular menstrual cycles and ovarian cysts, PCOS poses significant risks, potentially leading to infertility, type 2 diabetes and heart disease, making it a major health concern for women globally. OZiva's nationwide survey for PCOS month found that 65% of Indian women are unaware of PCOS symptoms, highlighting the need for increased awareness.”
While the exact cause of PCOS remains unclear, Dr Ruchita Singh listed several factors that increase the risk of developing this condition -
According to Dr Ruchita Singh, recognising the symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is crucial for early intervention and management and these symptoms generally appear in late adolescence or early adulthood. The symptoms include:
The health expert revealed, “Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) can lead to various long-term health complications, including an elevated risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Additionally, PCOS is associated with an increased likelihood of developing certain types of cancer, such as ovarian and breast cancer. Given these potential risks, it's crucial for individuals who suspect they may have PCOS to seek medical advice. Early diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment strategy can significantly mitigate these risks and improve overall health outcomes.”
Dr Ruchita Singh asserted that given the complexity of PCOS, prevention focuses on managing risk factors -
Dr Ruchita Singh highlighted that adopting a healthy lifestyle is critical in preventing and managing PCOS -
In some cases, Dr Ruchita Singh explained that medical interventions might be necessary -
Preventing PCOS requires a multifaceted approach, focusing on lifestyle changes, regular medical check-ups and awareness. By understanding the risk factors and adopting preventive measures, women can significantly reduce their risk of developing PCOS and its associated complications.