Experts are calling for greater awareness of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) as studies reveal that the majority of women with the condition do not know they have it. PCOS, a hormonal imbalance affecting approximately one in ten women, is linked to infertility, pregnancy complications, heart disease, and reduced quality of life. Yet fewer than half of those affected are diagnosed.
Health Risks of Undiagnosed PCOS
Recent Canadian research indicates that women with undiagnosed PCOS face a 20 to 40 percent higher risk of negative health outcomes, including hypertension, kidney disease, gastrointestinal disorders, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety. Obesity, dyslipidemia, and Type 2 diabetes are two to three times more common in these women. Most alarmingly, cardiovascular disease—the leading cause of death globally—is 30 to 50 percent more likely and occurs three to four years earlier in women with PCOS.
The High Cost of PCOS
The personal toll of PCOS is significant, affecting physical and mental health, and imposing financial, healthcare, and work-life burdens. These challenges are compounded by systemic failures in diagnosis and management, with many women reporting that their concerns are dismissed by doctors. An international survey found that diagnosis can take months or even years.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
Symptoms vary but include irregular periods, excess body hair (hirsutism), thinning scalp hair, acne, oily skin, and weight gain. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should discuss PCOS with their doctor, as early management can reduce the risk of serious complications.
Managing and Treating PCOS
There is no single test for PCOS, and no cure. Diagnosis typically involves blood work to check hormone levels and an ultrasound to examine the ovaries. Once diagnosed, further testing for cholesterol and glucose is recommended to manage heart disease and diabetes risk. Lifestyle modifications—such as a healthy diet, regular exercise (including strength training), adequate sleep (at least seven hours), stress reduction, and relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation—can help manage symptoms.
Ongoing Research and Advocacy
The 2023 International PCOS Guideline recommends individualized treatment, including lifestyle changes, medical management, and regular checkups. In Canada, Alberta has launched a clinical pathway for PCOS care that could be adopted more widely. At the University of Calgary, the EMBRACE lab, led by Dr. Jamie Benham, focuses on reproductive disorders across women's lifespans, including PCOS and gestational diabetes. The lab works closely with a PCOS Patient Advisory Council to ensure research addresses patient needs.
Other initiatives include PCOS Together in Alberta, which aims to detect early disease risk and develop preventive interventions. In the UK and Australia, organizations like Verity PCOS and Ask PCOS provide online resources and support.
PCOS remains a critical yet overlooked area of women's health. Greater awareness and attention are essential to improve and save lives.
