Razi Journal of Medical Sciences

    Background & Aim: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCO) is characterized by insulin resistance with compensatory hyperinsulinemia. Insulin resistance also plays a role in the metabolic syndrome (MBS). So, we hypothesized that the MBS should be more prevalent in PCOS.

Patients and Method: We conducted a cross-sectional study of all women with PCOS seen over a one-year period at the endocrinology clinic. 151 cases met the inclusion criteria for PCOS. The women were divided into two groups:1- women with PCO and the MBS (n=70) and 2- women with PCO lacking the MBS (n=81).

Results: The mean age of the cases was 28 ±8 years,ranging from 16 to 48. The frequency of the MBS was 70 (46. 4%). The frequency of abnormal findings in all cases was as follows in descending order: Low HDL:71%, Increased waist circumference:55. 6%, High triglyceride:48%, High blood pressure:22. 6% and FBS>110mg/dl: 7. 3%.

Conclusion: It is concluded that the MBS and its components are common in women with PCOS, placing them at increased risk for diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases.