Tip of the iceberg: highlighting the long term health consequences of polycystic ovary syndrome.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a chronic health condition that affects up to 15% of all women. It is characterised by increased blood levels of hormones called androgens (such as testosterone), alongside irregular periods and multiple follicles on the ovaries on ultrasound. PCOS has traditionally been perceived as a purely reproductive disorder, resulting in absence of ovulation and subfertility. However it is now increasingly clear that PCOS is a chronic metabolic disorder with significant health consequences for affected women across the lifespan. These adverse health outcomes include a significantly increased risk of type 2 diabetes, fat accumulation in the liver and cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, women with PCOS have reduced quality of life and an increased risk of mental health disorders, early retirement from their working careers and a higher risk of sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnoea than their non-PCOS counterparts.

Award Date

12 September 2022

Award Value

€56,375.00

Principal Investigator

Professor Michael O'Reilly

Host Institution

Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland

Scheme

Knowledge Translation Awards