Study Links PCOS and Endometriosis to Increased Cardiovascular Risk in Women

March 5, 2025
Study Links PCOS and Endometriosis to Increased Cardiovascular Risk in Women
  • Specifically, the study highlighted that women with these conditions have a 41% higher risk of ischemic heart disease and a 33% increased risk of cerebrovascular disease.

  • A recent study published in the journal Heart has revealed a significant link between common gynecological issues, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

  • Analyzing data from over 3.2 million women across 28 studies, the research found that women with these gynecological disorders face a 28% greater risk of composite cardiovascular disease.

  • Additionally, women experience about 55,000 more strokes each year than men, making stroke the third leading cause of death for women.

  • Interestingly, the study noted that the increased cardiovascular risk associated with these gynecological conditions may manifest relatively early in life, underscoring the need for early intervention and monitoring.

  • The researchers also acknowledged limitations in their study, noting that many of the reviewed studies had a high risk of bias and did not comprehensively cover all aspects of cardiovascular disease, indicating a need for more high-quality research.

  • Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death among women in the US, accounting for nearly 500,000 deaths annually, surpassing deaths from all cancers combined.

  • The hormonal imbalances in PCOS and the abnormal tissue growth in endometriosis are believed to contribute to the heightened cardiovascular and cerebrovascular risks observed in affected women.

  • Mathew Leonardi, one of the study's authors, stressed the importance of understanding the long-term health implications of these gynecological conditions on women's cardiovascular health and overall quality of life.

  • PCOS, which affects approximately 5 to 6 million women in the US, is characterized by hormonal imbalances impacting the ovaries, while endometriosis affects over 6.5 million women, causing pelvic pain and fertility issues.

  • The study also pointed out that over 10 million women in the US suffer from heavy menstrual bleeding, which can lead to anemia, and that menstrual irregularities affect 14% to 25% of women of childbearing age.

  • This research emphasizes the critical need for healthcare providers to recognize and address the cardiovascular risks associated with gynecological disorders to improve women's health outcomes.

Summary based on 2 sources


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