Implementation of dietary and general lifestyle advice among women with polycystic ovarian syndrome.

Aims: Central obesity and insulin resistance are strongly implicated in the etiology of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and their reduction is therefore a central treatment focus. Weight loss has been consistently successful in reducing insulin resistance and restoring ovulation and fertility in women with PCOS. The purpose of the current study is to investigate the general attitudes towards dieting and exercise in women with PCOS, together with the extent of implementation of the dietary and lifestyle advice that these women are given as part of their treatment. General knowledge of patients about their condition (PCOS) has also been assessed.

Methods: Fifty three pre-menopausal women, over the age of 18 years, with a confirmed diagnosis of PCOS, were recruited from the Endocrinology Department, Middlesex Hospital, London. Subjects were interviewed individually using an interview-guided questionnaire.

Results: Sixty four per cent of the subjects were overweight (BMI > 25 kg/m2) and 55% of those were obese (BMI > 30 kg/m2). All subjects identified the importance of weight control in the management of their condition. However, only nine out of the 35 overweight women had actually been referred to a dietician and only 22 reported taking moderate exercise at least once a week in order to improve their health. The main sources of information on weight management were the internet and their consultant endocrinologist, who they normally see only twice a year.

Conclusion: In spite of the fact that weight loss and weight maintenance are absolutely vital in the treatment of PCOS, our study has shown that the support given to PCOS patients to help reduce and control their weight is inadequate and needs to be improved.