Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent health concern affecting women of reproductive age, with a global prevalence ranging from 4% to 20%. In India, the prevalence is notably high, impacting approximately 3.7% to 22.5% of women. A recent survey revealed that 70% of Indian women aged 18-45 face menstrual health issues, with PCOS significantly impacting fertility and quality of life.
Dr Ruchita Singh, a Gynaecologist at HCL Healthcare, highlighted the risks posed by PCOS, such as hormonal imbalances, irregular menstrual cycles, and ovarian cysts, potentially leading to infertility, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. It is a condition of major concern for women globally. She emphasised the need for increased awareness, as 65% of Indian women are unaware of PCOS symptoms.
Understanding the Risk Factors
Dr Singh identified several risk factors for PCOS, including genetics, insulin resistance, inflammation, and obesity, stressing the importance of recognising these factors to manage and prevent the condition.
Recognising the Symptoms
Early intervention is crucial for managing PCOS, as symptoms generally appear during late adolescence or early adulthood. These symptoms include irregular or absent menstrual periods, difficulties in conceiving, excessive hair growth, unusual weight gain, thinning of scalp hair, and oily skin or acne. Dr Singh highlighted that PCOS can lead to long-term health complications, such as an elevated risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.
Prevention Strategies
Prevention focuses on managing risk factors, such as maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, managing stress, and adopting a healthy lifestyle. Dr Singh emphasised the importance of early detection through regular medical check-ups and highlighted the benefits of stress management practices, such as yoga, meditation, and adequate sleep.
Lifestyle Changes: A Cornerstone of Prevention
Adopting a healthy lifestyle plays a critical role in preventing and managing PCOS. Dr Singh recommended focusing on a balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, weight management, quitting smoking, and minimizing exposure to toxins found in certain plastics and personal care products.
Medical Interventions
In certain cases, medical interventions may be necessary, such as the use of medications like birth control pills and Metformin, as well as regular screenings for diabetes, cholesterol, and blood pressure.
In conclusion, preventing and managing PCOS requires a multifaceted approach involving lifestyle changes, regular medical check-ups, and increased awareness. By understanding the risk factors and adopting preventive measures, women can significantly reduce their risk of developing PCOS and its associated complications.
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