Introduction: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age with notable variability in prevalence globally and within Asia. PCOS is associated with metabolic and cardiovascular complications, prominently metabolic syndrome (MetS), due to its ties to insulin resistance and hyperandrogenism. This study aimed to assess MetS characteristics in women with PCOS and investigate the correlation between hyperandrogenism and MetS.
Materials and Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted over 18 months at the Post-Graduate Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Govt. Medical College Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. A total of 200 participants aged 14-39, diagnosed with PCOS per Rotterdam criteria, were recruited. Exclusion criteria included recent hormonal or psychiatric medication use, and conditions like hyperprolactinemia or thyroid dysfunction. Participants underwent detailed history-taking and physical examination to assess MetS and hyperandrogenism.
Results: Among the 200 participants, hyperandrogenic (HA) and normoandrogenic (NA) groups were established, each comprising 100 individuals. The HA group exhibited significantly higher body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference compared to the NA group (p<0.05). MetS prevalence was notably higher in the HA group (33%) than in the NA group (9%), aligning with MetS's known association with hyperandrogenism. Significant disparities in fasting blood sugar, HDL, triglycerides, and blood pressure were also observed, with HA participants demonstrating elevated cardiovascular risk markers compared to their NA counterparts.
Conclusion: The findings underscore the heightened metabolic risk in HA PCOS patients, evidenced by elevated BMI, waist circumference, and MetS prevalence. The strong association between hyperandrogenism and metabolic disturbances emphasizes the need for focused management strategies in HA PCOS phenotypes.