Global, regional, and national burden of polycystic ovary syndrome, 1990–2021: a comprehensive analysis of trends and projections based on the global burden of disease 2021 study

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a major endocrine disorder that affects women of reproductive age. This study evaluated global disease burden trends (1990-2021) and projected future trajectories to 2050 to inform public health strategies. Using Global Burden of Disease 2021 data, we analyzed PCOS prevalence, incidence, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and correlations with the sociodemographic index (SDI). Trends were assessed <i>via</i> the estimated annual percentage change, and future burden was projected using a Bayesian age-period-cohort model. From 1990 to 2021, global PCOS prevalence among reproductive - age women rose 89.55% to 69.47 million. Incident cases increased 55.90% to 2.30 million, and DALYs surged 87.70% to 607.76 thousand. Regions with rising SDI, particularly South, East, and Southeast Asia, saw the steepest increases in age-standardized rates. The incidence rose most sharply in the 10-19 age group, while the prevalence and DALYs peaked in the 15-49 age group. Projections indicate a continued increase in PCOS burden until 2050. PCOS poses a serious public health challenge, particularly in the medium-SDI regions. This escalating burden underscores the need for targeted interventions, particularly for adolescents and young women, to mitigate its long-term health impacts. Policymakers and clinicians must prioritize PCOS management to address its increasing global prevalence and associated disabilities.