The cause of polycystic ovarian syndrome is unknown but most experts think that several factors including genetics could play a role.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome affects millions of women around the world. Its prevalence is much higher in women of South Asian origin. It is one of the leading causes of fertility problems in women and runs in families.
It is also thought that insulin may be involved in the development of polycystic ovarian syndrome. Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance. When tissues are resistant to the effects of insulin the body has to produce more insulin to compensate. The high levels of insulin found in the bodies of women with PCOS and insulin resistance stimulate the ovaries to produce large amounts of testosterone which results in many of the symptoms of the condition.
It is estimated that 10% of women who are obese and have PCOS develop T2DM by 40 years. A higher proportion develops impaired glucose tolerance by this age. Because of its link to diabetes, if PCOS not managed properly, it can lead to additional health problems in later life.
(Source - balance – Mar-April 2013)
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