Abstract

POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME: AN ENCHANCING RISK FACTOR FOR CANCER

Dr. Kavya S. R.*

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Abstract

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the commonest endocrinological disorder leading to reproductive as well as metabolic dysfunction in the women. It’s the most frequent illness impacting women of reproductive age including PCOS or multi-cystic ovaries, Stein Leventhal syndrome, Schlerocystic ovaries. PCOS jeopardizes feminine identity of a woman due to alteration in her aesthetic standards in the form of hirsutism, acne, alopecia, obesity, menstrual irregularities, infertility and many more complications. Studies suggest that hyperandrogenism, hyperinsulinemia, genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors all could be considered as the major factors aggravating the disease. Women with Pcos are at increased risk of developing different types of cancer especially that of endometrial, ovarian and breast cancer. Unopposed estrogen exposure may be the prominent risk factor for the upcoming disaster. This review paper, will highlight the possible correlation between PCOS and cancer and how it could together trigger the cancer progression and metastasis. Objectives:  To assess the association between PCOS and cancer especially endometrial, ovarian and breast cancer.  To explore the relationship between genetic, enivornmental and other factors that may explain PCOS and its cancer risk.  To overcome PCOS and to prevent /reduce the risk of developing cancer. Highlights:  Potential risk factors for PCOS, endometrial, ovarian and breast cancer.

Keywords: PCOS, cancer, harmones, lifestyle.