A Prospective Study on the Prevalence of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome at a Tertiary Care Hospital of North Karnataka, India

BACKGROUND: The global incidence of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is on the rise, yet the etiological variables influencing PCOS remain unclear. The lack of a standardized diagnostic and treatment protocol adds complexity to managing PCOS. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of PCOS at SDM College of Medical Sciences and Hospital in Dharwad, Karnataka, India, utilizing the Rotterdam criteria over a period of 9 months from January to September 2023. METHODS: A prospective, observational and cross-sectional study was conducted, enrolling 150 women from the tertiary care hospital. PCOS diagnosis was based on the Rotterdam criteria, considering factors such as age, marital status, education, occupation, nutrition, and biochemical parameters. Data analysis employed GraphPad Prism version 9 and SPSS software version 20. RESULTS: Of the 150 participants, 72.47 met the Rotterdam criteria for PCOS, with oligomenorrhea, clinical/biochemical hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovaries on ultrasonography identified. The highest prevalence was in the age group of 27-30 years (31.19). Significant associations were observed between PCOS and dietary habits, with P < 0.001. Demographic profiles indicated a higher prevalence among married individuals (81.65) and those with primary education (69.72). Body mass index and waist-to-hip ratio were significantly different between PCOS and control groups (P = 0.0326 and < 0.001, respectively). Biochemical parameters such as luteinizing hormone/follicle-stimulating hormone ratio and anti-Müllerian hormone levels showed significant differences (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: PCOS prevalence was notable among reproductive age women at the tertiary care hospital. The study underscores the importance of considering both clinical and biochemical parameters for PCOS diagnosis using the Rotterdam criteria. Lifestyle management, including dietary changes and physical activity, emerged as the essential components. Further research and awareness initiatives are needed to address the increasing prevalence of PCOS and improve diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Keywords: Hyperandrogenism, lifestyle management, oligomenorrhea, polycystic ovary syndrome, reproductive health, Rotterdam criteria