INVESTIGATING CARDIOVASCULAR AND METABOLIC HEALTH PROFILES IN WOMEN WITH AND WITHOUT POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME: INSIGHTS FROM DISTRICT GHOTKI

Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder that impacts women’s reproductive and metabolic health. PCOS is frequently associated with increased risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and metabolic syndrome, making early detection and management essential for improving long-term health outcomes. Objectives: This study aimed to compare cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors in women with and without PCOS, assess laboratory markers, identify significant risk factors, and analyze the relationship between PCOS and CVD in women with metabolic syndrome. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Ayasha Nawab Maternity and Poly Clinic and Taluka Hospital in Ghotki from November 2024 to May 2025. A total of 383 women, including 141 with PCOS and 242 without, were included in the study. Participants' demographic data, clinical measurements, and laboratory tests for metabolic and cardiovascular risk factors (abdominal obesity, HBA1C, LDL, and blood pressure) were analyzed using SPSS. Results: The study found no significant differences in the prevalence of abdominal obesity (35% in non-PCOS, 34% in PCOS, p = 0.81), high LDL (52% in both groups, p = 0.92), or hypertension (15% in non-PCOS, 14% in PCOS, p = 0.85). Women with PCOS showed slightly higher HBA1C levels (5.09 vs. 4.94, p = 0.58). Additionally, total cholesterol and LDL levels were similar between groups, but variability was greater in the PCOS group. A significant association between cardiovascular risk factors and CVD was found, with 61% of women with ≥4 risk factors having CVD. Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of monitoring cardiovascular and metabolic health in women with PCOS, as they exhibit a higher degree of metabolic dysfunction that could lead to early cardiovascular complications. Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disorder affecting 5–15% of women of reproductive age, commonly presenting with menstrual irregularities, hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovarian morphology. Beyond reproductive implications, PCOS is strongly associated with insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and other cardiometabolic risk factors. These comorbidities significantly elevate the long-term risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and type 2 diabetes, making early identification and monitoring essential for effective prevention strategies. Objective: To compare cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors in women with and without PCOS, assess key laboratory markers, and analyze the association between PCOS and CVD risk in women with metabolic syndrome. Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted from November 15, 2024, to May 15, 2025, at Ayasha Nawab Maternity and Poly Clinic and Taluka Hospital, Ghotki. A total of 383 women aged 18–45 years were included, comprising 141 diagnosed with PCOS and 242 without the condition. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, anthropometric assessments, blood pressure readings, biochemical tests (HBA1C, LDL, total cholesterol), and ultrasound findings. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.0, applying chi-square tests, independent sample t-tests, and logistic regression. Results: Abdominal obesity was present in 34% of PCOS and 35% of non-PCOS women (p = 0.81). High HBA1C (≥5.7%) was found in 30% of PCOS and 26% of non-PCOS women (p = 0.58). Elevated LDL (≥100 mg/dL) was recorded in 52% of both groups (p = 0.92), and hypertension (≥130/80 mmHg) in 14% of PCOS and 15% of non-PCOS participants (p = 0.85). Mean HBA1C was higher in PCOS women (5.09 ± 1.15) versus non-PCOS (4.94 ± 1.12). Among women with ≥4 cardiovascular risk factors, 61 had confirmed CVD. Conclusion: Women with PCOS exhibit a higher burden of metabolic dysfunction and increased cardiovascular risk, underscoring the need for routine screening and early intervention to prevent long-term complications.