Diabetes prevalence and risk factors in polycystic ovary syndrome

Increased diabetes risk and prevalence form the cornerstone of metabolic ab normalities in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Women with PCOS have multiple risk factors for diabetes including obesity, a family histor y of type 2 diabetes, and abnormalities in insulin action. Studies of gluco se tolerance in urban and rural populations have shown rates of glucose int olerance approaching 40% in reproductive-aged women with PCOS who have poor correlation with fasting glucose levels. Impaired glucose tolerance may id entify a group of women at increased risk for cardiovascular disease. These findings justify vigilant screening for these abnormalities and appropriat e interventions in a PCOS population.