Assessment of dietary intake, anthropometric measurements and hormonal levels in child bearing age women with polycystic ovary syndrome

Abstract

<p><strong>Background and Objective:</strong> Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age. The prevalence of PCOS is higher among Pakistani women as they may have poor dietary habits. The objective of the study was to determine the dietary intake pattern, anthropometric measurement and hormonal levels in patients with PCOS.<br /><strong>Methods:</strong> A cross-sectional study was conducted among 160 women presenting at the Gynecology and Obstetrics Department of Jinnah Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan. PCOS was assessed using Rotterdam criterion. For each woman, its demographical data, anthropometric measurements, hormonal as well as dietary intake were taken and comparison was made between the PCOS and healthy women.<br /><strong>Results:</strong> There was no significant difference between the mean of the age, weight, height and body mass index between the PCOS group and the healthy women. Hirsutism, acne, weight gain, and sleep disturbance over past one year were higher in PCOS group whereas change in bowel habits was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in healthy controls over a year as compared to PCOS. In hormonal analysis, luteinizing hormone and testosterone were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in PCOS group than the healthy women. In dietary analysis, fiber, ash, Zinc and Riboflavin were significantly found greater (p < 0.05) among healthy controls in comparison to woman suffering from PCOS.<br /><strong>Conclusion:</strong> PCOS characterized with increased body weight, hirsutism, acne, and sleep disturbance is common in our women. Furthermore, it significantly correlates to lower intake of Fe and fiber while higher intake of more caloric diet from carbohydrates and fats in their daily routine.</p>