Metabolic syndrome in women with and without polycystic syndrome, A case control study in Iran

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in women of fertility age. The aim of this study was to compare the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in women with and without PCOS, who referred to infertility clinic.

In this case control study, 120 women with PCOS and 120 healthy controls, who had referred to infertility clinic, were selected for the purpose of this study. Polycystic ovarian disease was diagnosed according to the Rotterdam (2003) criteria, and the prevalence of MetS was assessed according to the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP ATP III) criteria for both groups.

Women with PCOS had markedly higher prevalence of the MetS than healthy controls (29.2% and 7.5%, respectively; P<0.0001). Among risk factors of MetS, the most prevalent components were low level of HDL cholesterol (97.5%), central obesity (86.7%), and high triglyceride (77.5%). The prevalence of MetS increased with age and BMI (P<0.0001).

The results suggest that the MetS was more frequent in PCOs infertile women, especially in upper age groups. Thus, the screening of these patients is suggested for preventive strategies in high risk individuals.