Prevalence of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Its Association with Metabolic Syndrome in Reproductive-Aged Women: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Women of reproductive age are vulnerable to the prevalent endocrine disorder referred to as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). It is often associated with metabolic syndrome. The existence of these two diseases markedly elevates susceptibility to cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Despite the significant incidence of obesity and metabolic disorders in the region, there is a lack of reliable information about South Asian women, even as these conditions become more prevalent globally. Objectives: To The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of PCOS among women of reproductive age and to evaluate its association with metabolic syndrome. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the obstetrics and gynecology department of several tertiary care hospitals in Pakistan, from January 2024 to January 2025. One hundred women aged 18 to 40 were systematically recruited. Metabolic syndrome was characterized according to the NCEP ATP III criteria, but polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) was diagnosed based on the Rotterdam 2003 guidelines. Data about anthropometric, biochemical, clinical, and sociodemographic factors were gathered. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 25, using logistic regression to compute 95% confidence intervals and odds ratios (ORs). Results: Among the patients, 29% were diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). 58.6% of women with PCOS had metabolic syndrome, in contrast to 21.1% of those without the condition (p < 0.001). In women with PCOS, the predominant abnormalities were central obesity (79.3%), elevated fasting glucose levels (37.9%), and decreased high-density lipoprotein (62.0%). Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) increased the likelihood of developing metabolic syndrome by almost fourfold, as shown by multivariate logistic analysis (OR = 3.2; 95% CI: 1.4-7.1; p = 0.005). Conclusion: metabolic syndrome is significantly correlated with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), prevalent among women of reproductive age. To mitigate the future risk of diabetes and cardiovascular issues in this vulnerable population, consistent screening, timely lifestyle modifications, and preventive measures are essential.