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Semin Reprod Med 2003; 21(3): 309-316
DOI: 10.1055/s-2003-43309
Copyright © 2003 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Cardiovascular Health in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Sara Sukalich, David Guzick
  • Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York
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Publication History

Publication Date:
31 October 2003 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is arguably the most common endocrinopathy among women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS have clinical characteristics that are associated with insulin resistance, vascular dysfunction, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. Although definitive data for increased cardiovascular events in women with PCOS are lacking, case-control studies have documented an increased risk of preclinical cardiovascular disease. Thus, PCOS should be viewed as a chronic condition that may ultimately have long-term health impacts and patients should be counseled to reduce cardiovascular risk factors through weight control, exercise, and/or pharmacologic treatments.

KEYWORDS

Polycystic ovary syndrome - cardiovascular disease - dyslipidemia - insulin resistance

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