Quantifying the prevalence and associations between PCOD, obesity, and depression

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), a prevalent endocrinopathy affecting 11.2% of reproductive-age women, is associated with metabolic and reproductive issues. In India, PCOD’s prevalence ranges from 3.7%-22.5%, imposing a substantial burden on healthcare and patients’ well-being due to its multifaceted problems, including ovarian and menstrual disorders, infertility, hirsutism, and metabolic and psychiatric conditions.

A new study aimed to assess the clinical profiles and prevalence of obesity and depression in women of childbearing age with PCOS, and to understand the relationship between various socioeconomic factors, such as marital status, infertility, and source of income, and obesity and depressive symptoms – owing to their substantial impact on the patient’s psychological health. 

This was a multicentric, prospective, observational, cross-sectional study involving 300 women with PCOS/PCOD – across different age groups.  

The results revealed that irregular menstrual periods (68.33%), infertility (28.33%), acne (44.6%), hirsutism (52.6%), and Acanthosis Nigricans (30%) were statistically significant clinical symptoms among various age groups. A high prevalence of obesity (61%) and depression (67%) were also observed among the participants. Moreover, 36% of those categorized as pre-obese or obese (BMI ≥ 25) experienced moderate to severe depression.

Although PCOS/PCOD – one of the most common endocrine disorders in reproductive-age women, was initially associated with physical health issues, is now known also to impact mental health. Given the mental health implications, addressing the psychological symptoms alongside managing the underlying condition is essential––potentially through counseling, talk therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.

Source: Yanamadala PK, Sanjana NL. World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research. 2023;12(7)