Visceral Adiposity Index as a Predictor of Cardio-metabolic Risk in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Introduction: This study was conducted to compare the visceral adiposity index (VAI), waist to hip ratio (WHR), and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) as predictors of cardio-metabolic risk in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and non-PCOS women. Methodology: This comparative observational study was conducted at SMS Medical College, Jaipur. Ninety women with PCOS (Rotterdam criteria) and 90 BMI matched non-PCOS women, of 18-35 years were enrolled in the study. Detailed history, demographic characteristics, and anthropometric measurements were noted for all the enrolled women. Serum luteinizing hormone (LH), serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), lipid profile, blood sugar and insulin levels were assessed. Data were analysed and compared. Results: Most (38, 42.2%) of the PCOS women belonged to D phenotype. Mean LH, cholesterol, and triglycerides level were significantly higher in PCOS women than non-PCOS women (p value<0.05). Mean values of HOMA-IR, VAI, waist to hip ratio (WHR), and waist circumference of women with PCOS were comparatively higher than non-PCOS women (p value<0.05). Cardio-metabolic risks were significantly higher in PCOS women than non-PCOS women (p value<0.05). VAI was found to be the best predictor of cardio-metabolic risks among PCOS women. Conclusion: VAI, HOMA-IR, and WHR can be used for assessing the visceral adiposity dysfunction and insulin resistance. VAI is found to be an early and better predictor of cardio-metabolic events in PCOS women.