1 in 8 women has Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) but diagnosis rates are only 30%
The Problem
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects one in every eight women in the world, yet only 30% currently receive a diagnosis, so 70% of people with the condition are unaware and do not seek treatment or help.
The causes of PCOS are unknown, but it often runs in families. PCOS is also associated with an increased risk of developing health problems in later life, such as type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol levels.
There’s no cure for PCOS, but the symptoms can be treated. Medicines are also available to treat symptoms such as excessive hair growth, irregular periods and fertility problems.
With treatment, most women with PCOS are able to get pregnant.
Solutions and Sharing
We’d love your help in finding the best ways of increasing diagnosis rates from their current low level. We recognise that the answers might come from people with very different experience from the medical profession so please share this challenge with anyone who you think may take us closer to solutions.
If you haven’t already, please become an Amitypather to help us spread the challenge to maximise our chances of success.
And if you think you have a solution and would like to discuss it, join the discussion in our forum on WhatsApp – we’ll share the link once you’re aboard as an Amitypather.
Thank you!
Dr Pegah Farzam
PCOS Researcher