Heart Health in Young Women: Progression of Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Is Increased In Those With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with increased rates of cardiovascular disease (CVD). We have shown that high-risk young women aged 18-45 years with and without PCOS exhibit atherogenic dyslipidemia and increased rates of atherosclerotic CVD (ACVD), compared with healthy-weight control subjects. In those with PCOS the grading of ACVD is more adverse, inclusive of carotid plaque height (CPH) and carotid intimal medial thickness (CIMT). The aim of this study was to determine the natural history and progression of ACVD in young women with and without PCOS.