MON-180 Weight Stigma is Prevalent Among People with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Canada: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Disclosure: M. Virk: None. C. Song: None. M. Bhogal: None. R. Vettese: None. S. Gill: None. H. Vanden Brink: None. J.L. Benham: None. Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine-metabolic disorder affecting 10-13% of reproductive-aged people with ovaries globally, with significant metabolic and mental health implications. Current PCOS management emphasizes lifestyle and behavioral interventions. The objective of this study is to examine the prevalence of weight stigma among people with PCOS living in Canada and whether weight stigma is associated with differences in approaches to medical management and healthcare experiences. Methods: Participants aged 18 or older, residing in Canada, and self- or formally diagnosed with PCOS were recruited using purposive sampling to complete an online survey about their diagnostic experiences and management for PCOS. The survey was co-designed with a patient partner and conducted via Qualtrics from August 1 to October 16, 2024. For the present analyses, data were stratified by those who reported experiencing weight stigma and those who did not. T-tests with unequal variance and two-sided tests of proportions were used to evaluate differences between groups. Results: Among 480 respondents, 362 (75%) reported experiencing weight stigma while 118 (25%) denied experiencing weight stigma. Individuals with PCOS who reported weight stigma were of older age than those who had not experienced weight stigma (31.1 years vs. 23.9 years, p <0.001) and were more likely to have been diagnosed with insulin resistance (75% vs. 43%, p <0.0001). Depression (70% vs 50%, p <0.0001), anxiety (86% vs 79%, p <0.05), eating disorders (37% vs 19%, p <0.0005) and body image concerns (89% vs 55%, p <0.0001) were more frequently reported among those who had experienced weight stigma than those who had not. Among those who reported experiencing weight stigma, 307 (85%) were advised to lose weight as part of PCOS management, compared to 30 (25%) who had not experienced weight stigma (p <0.001). Efforts to make dietary modifications to treat PCOS were significantly more common among those experiencing weight stigma, with 336 (93%) reporting such attempts compared to 85 (72%) of those without weight stigma (p <0.001). However, among all respondents, only 197 (54%) of those who reported experiencing weight stigma received support for their dietary goals, compared to 73 (62%) of those without weight stigma (p=0.048). Physical activity levels were similar between groups (p=0.48). Conclusion: Weight stigma is highly prevalent among individuals with PCOS. Those experiencing weight stigma reported higher rates of metabolic and mental health conditions, were more likely to be advised to lose weight, yet received less supportive care for dietary goals. These findings highlight the need for stigma-free, patient-centered approaches to improve PCOS management and overall well-being. Presentation: Monday, July 14, 2025