PCOS Has a New Name: Why PMOS Better Reflects the Health Risks for Women

There is a new name for PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), a common condition that affects 4.5 million Filipino women and an estimated 1 in 8 women of reproductive age globally. Its former name often led many people to assume that PCOS was only an ovarian cyst condition, even though some women with PCOS may not have any ovarian cysts at all. 

 

In an effort to better characterize PCOS, the international medical community recently proposed renaming the condition PMOS, short for Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome. This is because, in addition to ovarian cysts and the reproductive system, PCOS is linked to hormones, metabolism, weight, and long-term health.

More than half (52.06%) of Filipino women were categorized as obese in a recent PCOS study, with weight gain (66.15%) being a major symptom. In particular, insulin resistance may raise the risk of obesity, prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as cardiovascular disease. The new name aims to encourage women to view this condition more holistically. Possible symptoms include irregular menstruation, acne, thinning hair, excessive hair growth, easy weight gain, infertility, or, in some cases, no symptoms at all in the early stages. As a result, it's critical that all women recognize that obesity and diabetes may be more closely linked than they think. The risk can begin as early as adolescence, reproductive age, or working age, even while living a normal everyday life without being aware of it.

Zuellig Pharma, one of Asia's leading providers of medical solutions, recognizes the importance of raising PMOS awareness in connection to women's health. This aims to improve the quality of life for all women with the condition by empowering them to seek screening for obesity, diabetes, and PMOS by encouraging them to pay attention to signals from their bodies and notice changes in their menstrual cycle, weight, and skin. Early screening can reduce the potential financial burden of non-communicable diseases and increase the likelihood of choosing an appropriate course of treatment.

5 Signs Women Should Look Out For If They Suspect PMOS and Metabolic Risk

1. Irregular menstrual periods, such as absent periods, periods that occur infrequently or too frequently, unusually heavy periods, or unpredictable menstrual cycles.
2. Abnormal blood sugar levels, or already living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
3. Excessive hair growth on the face, chest, abdomen, or upper thighs.
4. Severe acne, persistent acne after adolescence, or acne that does not improve with usual treatments.
5. Snoring, waking up unrefreshed, daytime sleepiness, or unusual fatigue.

Women who encounter any of these symptoms are encouraged to consult their healthcare provider for a comprehensive evaluation. Early screening and diagnosis are essential for effective management of the condition and reducing the long-term risk of related health issues like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

About Zuellig Pharma

Zuellig Pharma is a leading healthcare solutions company in Asia, and our purpose is to make healthcare more accessible to the communities we serve. We provide world-class distribution, commercialization, and clinical trial support services, underpinned by a strong culture of innovation to support the growing healthcare needs in this region. The company was founded a hundred years ago and has grown to become a multibillion-dollar business covering 18 markets with over 12,000 employees. Our people serve more than 200,000 medical facilities and work with over 450 clients, including the top 20 pharmaceutical companies in the world.