Connection between PCOS and Diabetes
A leading specialist on reproductive health states that young women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) have a startlingly greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes, even if young and not obese/over weight.
The study lead by Professor Helena Teede and Dr Anju Joham, evaluated a large-scale epidemiological research, known as the Australian Longitudinal Study of Women’s Health, which exposed the results.
More than 6000 women aged between 25-28 years were examined for 9 years, which includes 500 with clinically diagnosed PCOS. The occurrence and prevalence of type 2 diabetes was 3 to 5 times greater in women with PCOS. Vitally, obesity, a key lead to type 2 diabetes, was not an essential trigger in women with PCOS.
Professor Teede stated the results have major implications for diabetes screening, along with for the care of women with PCOS.
“Type 2 diabetes by itself is preventable, as are diabetes issues, but only if individuals at risk of or who have diabetes are tested, aware and take precautionary action,” Professor Teede said.
“With the remarkable increase in diabetes, this study illustrates the require for better awareness and screening, particularly in high risk communities which includes young women with PCOS.”
The women analyzed were aged 25-28 in 2003 and were observed over 9 years till age 34 to 37 years in 2012.
Professor Teede stated these are the peak reproductive years when un-diagnosed diabetes could have major threats for mothers and babies.
“Our study identified that there is a clear connection between PCOS and diabetes. On the other hand, PCOS is not a well-identified diabetes threat factor and many young women with the problem don’t get frequent diabetes screening even pre pregnancy, regardless of suggestions from the Australian PCOS evidence dependent guidelines.” She added.
“Presently diabetes screening suggestions suggest screening over 40 years of age. This may require to be reconsidered in ladies with PCOS. We obviously require more study in PCOS, with better screening, prevention and therapies.”
Impacting about 1 in 5 women, the research also reveals that many women with PCOS stay un-diagnosed with what is the very frequent hormonal disorder in women. Symptoms can consist of irregular periods, weight gain, excessive facial hair and pimples. PCOS is generally managed with frequent screening and prevention techniques, together with lifestyle changes and medication.
Professor Helena Teede provided this ground breaking study at the joint meeting of the International Society of Endocrinology and the Endocrine Society, which took place recently.
In the next stage of study, Professor Teede’s group and scientists from Monash Health, Alfred Health and the Baker IDI are searching at how new medication, may enhance the health of women with PCOS.