A recent study has revealed that a significant number of college-going women in Delhi are affected by Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a common hormonal disorder. The research, which involved 1,164 women aged between 18 to 25, found a prevalence rate of 17.4%. This figure is among the highest in the country.
Conducted with funding from the Indian Council of Medical Research, the study was published in the peer-reviewed journal BMC Health. The researchers highlighted that PCOS is characterized by a variety of health issues including irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, growth of excess hair, acne, and obesity. Despite its high prevalence, they noted that PCOS is still widely under-researched in India.
The study examined data from various regions across India, identifying that the overall pooled prevalence of PCOS in similar age groups is 8.41%. The research pointed out that this prevalence varies significantly between urban and rural areas, with urban women showing higher rates. For instance, while Lucknow reported a low prevalence of 3.70%, Mumbai recorded a staggering 22.50%.
One of the researchers, Prof. Kallur Nava Saraswathy from Delhi University, explained that the pressures of urban living are likely contributing to the increased prevalence of PCOS. Many young women relocate to cities for education and employment, facing psychological stress due to fierce competition. This stress, combined with disrupted sleep patterns and unhealthy dietary habits, may play a role in the rising cases of PCOS.
The study also highlights the socio-economic factors associated with PCOS. Women from higher income brackets are noted to have a greater risk, largely due to lifestyle changes, such as increased consumption of processed foods and reduced physical activity. Additionally, the highest prevalence was found among women from Scheduled Tribes (21.40%) and the General Category (19.90%).
Out of the surveyed participants, 70.30% had already been diagnosed with PCOS prior to the study. The researchers arranged for ultrasound testing for the remaining women who exhibited symptoms but had not yet been diagnosed.
The findings underscore the need for increased awareness and targeted interventions for young women in India to address this pressing health issue. The researchers emphasized that more studies focusing on this age group are necessary to fully understand and combat the challenges posed by PCOS.
As health problems among young women continue to rise, experts hope that more resources will be dedicated to researching and treating conditions like PCOS, paving the way for healthier futures.
