Exploring Metabolic Profile and Associated Risk Factors Among Women Diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Abstract

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is among the most prevalent endocrine disorders in women of reproductive age, often associated with metabolic disturbances that may lead to long-term cardiovascular and metabolic complications. Common features include obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia and impaired glucose metabolism that have a negative impact on reproductive and overall health. The aim of this study was to investigate the metabolic profile and associated risk factors in women with diagnosed PCOS in a tertiary care hospital.

Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 120 women suffering from PCOS was performed in the hospital from July to December 2022. Participants were recruited using a non-probability consecutive sampling technique. Demographic data, clinical history, anthropometric data, metabolic parameters, and lifestyle-related data were obtained from a structured questionnaire and medical records.  Assessment of fasting blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), lipid profile, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and insulin resistance status was done. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0. Participants' characteristics were estimated by descriptive statistics, and Chi-square tests were used to explore factors related to metabolic syndrome. A p-value < 0.05 was deemed to be statistically significant. 

Results: The mean age of participants was 27.8 ± 5.6 years, and the mean BMI was 29.3 ± 5.2 kg/m². One in four women (44.2%) were obese, 55% (55.0%) were insulin resistant, and 28% (28.3%) had metabolic syndrome. Most frequently observed clinical features were menstrual irregularity (86.7%), hirsutism (65.0%) and acne (57.5%). Obesity, insulin resistance, sedentary lifestyle, family history of diabetes, age ≥30 years and disease duration ≥10 years were significant associated factors with metabolic syndrome (p<0.05).

Conclusion: Women with PCOS had a high burden of metabolic abnormalities and modifiable lifestyle risk factors. To minimize future metabolic and reproductive complications, early metabolic screening, routine cardiovascular risk assessment and targeted lifestyle interventions should be made an essential component of ongoing clinical care for this patient population.