according to the research, published in the journal of the american heart association , women with polycystic ovary syndrome (pcos) are more likely to experience preeclampsia (high blood pressure with organ damage), peripartum cardiomyopathy (a weak or enlarged heart), heart failure, blood clots and abnormal heart rhythms than the general population.
“oftentimes, women with pcos are understandably concerned about the immediate effects, like an irregular menstrual cycle, excess body hair, weight gain and acne,” said erin michos , corresponding author of the study and an associate professor of medicine at the johns hopkins university school of medicine. “however, the long-term cardiovascular complications are also a serious problem.”
around 1.4 million canadians are affected by pcos, according to one study , making it one of the most common endocrine disorders affecting women of reproductive age. women with the disorder suffer from irregular periods, or no periods at all, which can lead to a range of fertility issues. many also experience hirsutism, or unwanted hair growth, on their face or body, in addition to oily skin and acne. these symptoms are caused by the presence high levels of hormones known as androgens, which are also believed to be responsible for the weight gain and diabetes risk also associated with the disorder.
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dave yasvinski is a writer with healthing.ca