The epidemiology of polycystic ovary syndrome - Prevalence and associated disease risk

When defined by anovulation and androgen excess, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects approximately 5% of women of reproductive age. This article reviews data on the epidemiology of PCOS, with a focus on associations between PCOS and several long-term disease risks. Present data strongly and consistently support increased risks for type 2 diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and endometrial cancer, which appear to be independent of obesity. Some studies also suggest increased risks for hypertension, cardiovascular disease, gestational diabetes mellitus, pregnancy-induced hypertension, and, possibly, ovarian cancer, although more information is needed. At present there are few data to support an increased risk for breast cancer in PCOS. Better understanding of disease risks associated with PCOS will require longterm, prospective follow-up of affected women and adjustment for associated obesity.