Rise of PCOS among Indian women

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age. It involves the ovaries producing higher levels of androgens, disrupting normal menstrual cycles and potentially causing cysts to develop on the ovaries.

PCOS cases in India are on the rise with experts suggesting that more awareness is needed amongst women regarding this condition. PCOS can be managed by simple lifestyle can help manage PCOS better. In this blog we will understand statistics of PCOS in India and what experts has to say about rising PCOS cases in India.

Symptoms Range from Mild to Severe

Weight gain, lethargy, unwanted hair growth, thinning hair, infertility, acne, pelvic pain, migraines, sleep issues and mood changes are all signs of PCOS in girls and women. The majority of symptoms appear just after puberty; however, they can also appear in late adolescence and early adulthood.

Girls with PCOS often have irregular periods or amenorrhea, as well as heavy or scanty menstrual flow. Doctors also search for polycystic ovaries and increased levels of the male hormone androgen and testosterone.

Women with PCOS may develop cysts as a result of their ovaries not being released on time. The follicles continue to expand and form numerous cysts that resemble a "string of pearls." If a woman's mother or sibling has PCOS, she is more likely to get it herself.

Not only that, but women with PCOS are more likely to develop hypertension, high cholesterol, anxiety and depression, sleep apnea, heart attack, diabetes, and endometrial, ovarian, and breast cancer. PCOS increases the risk of miscarriage, gestational diabetes, and early birth in women.

Treatment and Management of PCOS

Treatment and management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) typically involves a combination of approaches tailored to individual needs. Lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and weight management are often recommended to improve symptoms. Hormonal birth control can regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen levels, addressing symptoms like irregular periods and acne. Metformin, a medication for type 2 diabetes, may be prescribed to help regulate insulin levels, which can contribute to PCOS symptoms (1).

For women seeking to conceive, fertility treatments like ovulation induction or in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be options. Additionally, managing specific symptoms like excess hair growth or hair loss may involve treatments such as anti-androgen medications or topical creams. Regular monitoring by healthcare providers is crucial to track progress and adjust treatment as needed.

PCOS in Indian Woman

According to a study by the PCOS Society, one in every five women in India has polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and 1 in every 5 women have PCOS in India, a common endocrine system condition among women of reproductive age. Six teenage girls are diagnosed with PCOS for every ten women with the condition.

PCOS was first described in 1935. However, there is still a general lack of understanding of the issue in India and it frequently goes unnoticed for years. Around 10 million women are thought to be affected by this illness around the world.

According to a study conducted by AIIMS' department of endocrinology and metabolism, roughly 20-25 percent of Indian women of reproductive age have PCOS. While 60% of women with PCOS are overweight, 35-50% have a fatty liver. Around 70% of people have insulin resistance, 60-70 percent have elevated testosterone levels, and 40-60 percent have glucose intolerance (2).

PCOS was found to be prevalent in 9.13 percent of women in South India and 22.5 percent of women in Maharashtra, according to studies (3).

Because the disorder's symptoms and severity vary so widely, many parts of it remain unknown. Insulin levels are regularly reported to be higher than normal in women with PCOS. It promotes the conversion of sugar (glucose) into energy in the bodily cells.

Blood sugar levels can rise if you don't create enough insulin. This can also happen if you're insulin resistant, which means you're unable to efficiently use the insulin you do make. If you're insulin resistant, your body may try to control your blood sugar levels by producing a lot of insulin.

Insulin levels that are too high lead your ovaries to create more androgens like testosterone. Insulin resistance can also be caused by a body mass index that is higher than normal. Insulin resistance makes it difficult to lose weight, which is why women with PCOS frequently face this problem.

PCOS has become so common among women and young girls that the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has launched a state-wide survey. It's serious because, if left untreated or undetected, this illness can lead to infertility and other long-term health issues.

The key to preventing health problems is early diagnosis and treatment. We have encountered 4-5 cases of young girls with PCOS at Motherhood Hospitals alone, which is much higher than 10 years ago. This is primarily due to unhealthy lifestyles, poor diets and a lack of physical activity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) presents a significant health challenge for women in India, with prevalence rates on the rise. Despite advances in understanding and treatment, there remains a need for greater awareness and early intervention. Lifestyle modifications, proper diagnosis, and tailored management plans are crucial in mitigating the impact of PCOS on women's health and well-being.
Through concerted efforts in education, healthcare access, and lifestyle improvements, the trajectory of PCOS can be positively influenced, empowering women to lead healthier lives and reduce the burden of this complex condition on society as a whole.

FAQs

1. Why is PCOS so common in Indian women?

PCOS prevalence among Indian women is linked to genetic predispositions, lifestyle factors like diet and physical activity, and environmental influences. Dietary habits rich in refined carbohydrates and sedentary lifestyles contribute to insulin resistance, a key factor in PCOS development.

2. Which country has the most PCOS?

PCOS affects women worldwide, but prevalence rates vary. Countries with higher rates include India, the United States, Greece, and Iran, with estimates ranging from 6% to 20% of reproductive-aged women affected.

3. Who is most prone to PCOS?

Women of reproductive age, particularly those with a family history of PCOS or related conditions, obesity, insulin resistance, and sedentary lifestyles, are more prone to developing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).

4. Can pcos women live normal life?

Yes, many women with PCOS can lead fulfilling lives with appropriate management. Treatment focuses on symptom control, lifestyle adjustments, and addressing underlying health concerns. With proper care, women with PCOS can achieve normal fertility, manage symptoms, and lead healthy lives.