The link between PCOS and cardiovascular disease: What every woman should know
Beyond reproductive concerns, emerging research highlights a strong link between PCOS and increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Women with PCOS often experience factors like high blood pressure, dyslipidemia, chronic inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction, which contribute to heart disease and stroke risk. Early awareness, lifestyle changes, and medical management are crucial to reducing these cardiovascular risks.
What is PCOS and how it increases cardiovascular risk in women
PCOS is characterised by hormonal imbalances that can lead to irregular menstrual cycles, elevated levels of androgens (male hormones), and polycystic ovaries. Common symptoms include:
Irregular periods
Ovulatory dysfunction
Elevated androgen levels
Cystic ovaries
Beyond reproductive health, PCOS is linked to metabolic disturbances such as insulin resistance, obesity, and dyslipidemia, which can contribute to cardiovascular risk.
PCOS increases cardiovascular risk
1. Metabolic syndrome
Women with PCOS often exhibit components of metabolic syndrome, including:
Insulin resistance: Leading to elevated blood glucose levels.
Dyslipidemia: Characterized by high LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, and low HDL cholesterol.
Hypertension: Increased blood pressure levels.
These factors collectively elevate the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes .
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2. Chronic inflammation
PCOS is associated with low-grade chronic inflammation, as evidenced by elevated levels of inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukins. This inflammatory state can accelerate the development of atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque builds up in the arteries, leading to cardiovascular complications .
3. Endothelial dysfunction
The endothelium, the thin layer of cells lining blood vessels, plays a crucial role in vascular health.
Women with PCOS often exhibit endothelial dysfunction, characterized by reduced nitric oxide availability and impaired vasodilation. This dysfunction contributes to increased arterial stiffness and heightened cardiovascular risk .
4. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
OSA is more prevalent in women with PCOS compared to the general population. The intermittent cessation of breathing during sleep can lead to increased blood pressure and elevated sympathetic nervous system activity, further exacerbating cardiovascular risk .
Does weight matter?
While obesity can elevate the risk of PCOS and its complications, it's a myth that only overweight or obese women are affected. Even women with a healthy or lean body weight can experience insulin resistance, abnormal lipid profiles, and high blood pressure due to PCOS. This makes it essential to monitor cardiovascular health markers in all women with PCOS, regardless of their body size.
Preventive measures and management
1. Regular monitoring
Routine screening for cardiovascular risk factors is essential for women with PCOS. This includes:
Monitoring blood pressure
Assessing lipid profiles
Evaluating glucose tolerance
2. Lifestyle modifications
Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle can mitigate cardiovascular risk:
Diet: Emphasize a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet is particularly beneficial for managing blood pressure.
Physical activity: Engage in regular aerobic exercises to improve cardiovascular health and manage weight.
Weight management: Achieve and maintain a healthy weight to reduce insulin resistance and improve lipid profiles.
3. Pharmacological interventions
In some cases, medications may be prescribed to manage cardiovascular risk factors.
4. Sleep apnea management
For women with PCOS diagnosed with OSA, appropriate interventions like Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy can improve sleep quality and reduce cardiovascular strain.
Also read |
PCOD diet: Best foods, what to avoid, and lifestyle tips to manage PCOD naturally
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