Heart and Health in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

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Rationale:

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common disorder in which women present with infertility, menstrual dysfunction and elevated testosterone levels. However, PCOS also leads to early metabolic problems in these women, related to altered fat (lipid) and carbohydrate metabolism, obesity, high blood pressure, problems with the immune system, weakened blood vessels, diabetes and an increased risk for health problems related to heart disease. Studies on early detection of heart disease in young high-risk women with PCOS are limited. We will measure early markers of heart disease including high blood lipids, heart function and vascular disease in women with PCOS compared to healthy women of the same age and weight who do not have PCOS. 

Eligibility: 

  • Women diagnosed with PCOS
  • Healthy women (not diagnosed with other chronic disease such as diabetes, will be matched to participants with PCOS)
  • 18-45 years of age
  • body mass index (BMI) greater than 25.0 kg/m2
  • blood test shows elevated levels of triglycerides or glucose or insulin
  • from the Edmonton area and surrounding communities