the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by the development of multiple small follicles in the ovaries, a hyperandrogenism (too much male hormone) causing acne and hair growth, as well as very irregular menstrual cycles, often without ovulation. In the long term, this rare condition can lead to problems with infertility, miscarriage or complications during pregnancy.
But according to a scientific study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolismpolycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) would also cause cardiovascular and metabolic risks, which can lead to hospitalization.
The analysis was carried out on 2,566 women with PCOS, compared to 25,660 women who did not suffer from this syndrome. According to the results of health data obtained, women with this disorder have an increased risk of developing heart problems, diabetesreproductive problems or even a endometrial cancerthe internal muscle of the uterus.
Next, the researchers compared the hospital admission rates of the two groups, and found that women with PCOS are twice as likely as others to be hospitalized.
A call to better monitor this at-risk population
“Our study indicates that women with PCOS report twice as many hospitalizations as women without the disease“, reports Dr. Roger Hart, co-author of the study.”Additional means must therefore be put in place to respond to the risks that weigh on this population. PCOS has implications for women’s reproductive health as well as their risk for chronic disease.“
The study shows that women with PCOS were hospitalized more than others for type 2 diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, heart attack or artery disease. They also suffered from more stress, anxiety, asthma and depression than women without this disease.
“This study suggests that polycystic ovary syndrome has profound implications for women, on their short-term reproductive functions, but also on their long-term chronic disease risk. Substantial sanitary means must be implemented to counter these risks..”
The authors also point out that the study included only a quarter of women close to 40 years old, so the number of women at risk of age-related cardiovascular and metabolic problems was low.
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