An overview of the risk, underlying factors, and mechanism of cancer progression in polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine and metabolic disorder among women of reproductive age. PCOS is characterized by ovulatory dysfunction, clinical or biochemical features of hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovaries. The risk of cancer among PCOS patients has been a topic of discussion for decades due to the overlapping metabolic and endocrine abnormalities. This review article focuses on the association of PCOS with various types of reproductive (such as endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, and breast cancer) and non-reproductive cancers, considering different aspects, such as the risk of cancer progression in PCOS patients, the underlying factors, and the mechanism through which PCOS might progress to cancer. The information provided in this article would help create awareness among PCOS patients about the need to take risk-reducing measures. This article might also aid in the effort of identifying novel therapeutic targets to counteract the progression of cancer in PCOS.