Risk factors for polycystic ovary syndrome among women of reproductive age in Egypt: A case control study

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age, associated with an increased risk of multiple diseases, and its pathogenesis is not fully understood. Purpose: identify risk factors for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in reproductive-aged Egyptian women attending an outpatient gynecological clinic at a specialized hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Port Said City, Egypt. The study population included 248 women; 124 women suffered from PCOS and 124 Non-PCOS. Methods: - Case-control study was conducted among women. PCOS women were diagnosed clinically by transvaginal ultrasound and laboratory investigations. Data were collected using; I) a structured interview questionnaire, including sociodemographic status, medical and family history, menstrual and obstetrical history and lifestyle habits, and clinical examination; II) anthropometric parameters; III) perceived stress scale. The mean age of cases was 26.18 +/- 0.45 years. The most common risk factors for PCOS were urban residence, high education, working, insufficient income, history of anemia, hypertension, cancer, and family history of PCOS and infertility, increasing body mass index, fast food, and drinking of coffee. The study concluded that the significant risk factors for polycystic ovarian disease in Egypt women included socio-demographic characteristics, medical and family history, increasing body mass index, and lifestyle habits. This study recommended that Polycystic Ovary Syndrome women follow a healthy diet and exercise regularly. (Afr J Reprod Health 2023; 27 [6]: 41-50).