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PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), a common condition affecting an estimated 1 in 8 women of reproductive age worldwide[1] and 4.5 million Filipino women[2] has a new name. Its former name often led many people to understand it as merely an ovarian cyst condition, even though some women with PCOS may not have ovarian cysts at all.[3]
Recently, PCOS has been proposed by the global health community to be renamed PMOS,
short for Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome, to provide a more comprehensive description of the condition. This is because PCOS is not only related to ovarian cysts or the reproductive system, but is also linked to hormones, metabolism, weight, and long-term health.
The key point of the new name is to encourage women to view this condition more holistically, particularly insulin resistance, which may increase the risk of obesity, prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, and other non-communicable diseases, or NCDs, such as cardiovascular disease.[4] This is especially true for obesity, with more than half (52.06%) of Filipino women in a recent PCOS research are classified as obese, reporting weight gain (66.15%) as a major symptom.[5] PMOS is therefore not a “new disease,” but a name that helps describe the condition more in line with reality. Possible symptoms include irregular menstrual periods, acne, excessive hair growth, thinning hair, easy weight gain, infertility, or, in some cases, no obvious symptoms in the early stage. Every woman should therefore be aware that obesity and diabetes may be closer than they think. The risk can begin as early as adolescence, reproductive age, or working age, even while living a normal daily life without realizing it.
Zuellig Pharma, one of the leading healthcare solutions providers in Asia, recognizes the importance of raising awareness of PMOS as part of women’s health. This aims to improve the quality of life of all women living with the condition by encouraging them to pay attention to signals from their bodies and observe changes in their menstrual cycle, weight, and skin, so they can seek screening for PMOS, diabetes, and obesity. Early screening can increase the opportunity to choose an appropriate treatment approach and help reduce the future cost burden of non-communicable diseases that may arise.
5 Signs Women Should Look Out For If They Suspect PMOS and Metabolic Risk
- Irregular menstrual periods, such as absent periods, periods that occur infrequently or too frequently, unusually heavy periods, or unpredictable menstrual cycles.[6]
- Abnormal blood sugar levels, or already living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.[7]
- Excessive hair growth on the face, chest, abdomen, or upper thighs.[8]
- Severe acne, persistent acne after adolescence, or acne that does not improve with usual treatments.[9]
- Snoring, waking up unrefreshed, daytime sleepiness, or unusual fatigue.[10]
Women experiencing any of these symptoms are encouraged to consult their healthcare provider for a proper evaluation. Early screening and diagnosis are key to managing the condition effectively and reducing the long-term risk of related health issues like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
