Rising PCOS in teenage girls: The hidden impact of modern lifestyle

PCOS cases are increasing among teenage girls and experts suggest that changes in diet, stress, and lifestyle may be key factors driving the rise,(Image: Canva)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is becoming a major health concern in adolescent girls all over the world. This, formerly predominantly an adult female disease, is being diagnosed more during adolescence. It is largely due to the lifestyle changes associated with urbanization- sedentary activities, unhealthy eating habits, and lack of regular sleep and exercise, elevated stress etc.

PCOS impacts more than just your menstrual cycle and ability to become pregnant — it puts you at risk for things like diabetes, obesity, and mental health disorders down the road. It can be avoided with early detection, and awareness (balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and stress management), says Dr Seema Jain – Senior Director, Obs & Gynae, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Shalimar Bagh

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How modern lifestyles contribute to PCOS:

1. Unhealthy eating habits:

eating too much processed and junk food leads to weight gain as one of the major contributors to PCOS.

2. Sedentary lifestyles:

More screen time, and busy school schedules means less opportunity and time to exercise and lead to long-term metabolic health.

3. Stress and sleep changes:

The social media/digital age brings a stress we have never had before and with constant connectivity, sleep is subject to change and hormonal health is influenced, especially in adolescents.

4. Urbanite lifestyle:

Urbanization, and all that being ‘modern’ represents, combines with Westernization of diet and behaviours, to promote less healthy diet and lack of physical activity leading to an overall increase in PCOS.

Key factors to address –

1. Changes to dietits

A move towards a balanced diet with increased intake of green leafy vegetables, lentils and fibrous carbohydrates while minimising processed and sugary foods.

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2. Physical activity:

Implementing regular exercise is important for weight control, mood enhancement and blood sugar regulation. Each is beneficial for managing PCOS.

3. Reduction of stress:

Coping with digital stressors by moderating screen time and establishing healthier stress coping mechanisms and strategies can also help delay the impact on hormonal health.

4. Awareness and early intervention:

Awareness and early detection screening programs in schools are essential to know about the recommended early stages of identifying and managing the condition before long term ramifications occur.

Medication, just like lifestyle changes, can be a big part of managing PCOS. Some medications can help with weight loss, help cholesterol levels, help bring androgen levels back to normal, help get your period back to normal, and help with the sensitivity to fertility medication.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.