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Introduction to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Risk Factors for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Some risk factors for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) that have been identified include:
Premature pubarche (the appearance of pubic hair before the age of 8) - This is caused by early hyperandrogenism and may be a precursor to PCOS. Some girls with premature pubarche may already display mild hyperinsulinemia which may intensifies significantly after the beginning of puberty and increases their risk for developing PCOS.
Ethnicity - Certain Native American groups have over a 20% incidence of PCOS. Some identify Latino and Greek women as seeming to have a higher incidence (approximately 9%) than Caucasians and African Americans (approximately 4%).
Positive family history of any of the following:
- diabetes
- insulin resistance
- hyperinsulinemia
- irregular menses or anovulation
- cardiovascular disease
