'70% women undiagnosed, we must educate more': Namita Thapar spreads awareness about PCOS

In recognition of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Awareness Month, Namita Thapar, Executive Director of Emcure Pharmaceuticals and a judge on "Shark Tank India", took to social media to address the widespread issue. In a video shared on Instagram, Thapar emphasised the urgent need for greater awareness and understanding of the hormonal disorder, which affects millions of people globally.

"September is PCOS awareness month. When we have statistics like 20% of Indian women affected and 70% going undiagnosed, we must educate more," Thapar stated in the caption accompanying her post. Her message focused on the importance of early diagnosis, mentioning that a simple pelvic exam, ultrasound, and blood test can help identify the condition.

The video also referenced public figures who have spoken openly about their experiences with PCOS, such as Sonam Kapoor, daughter of actor Anil Kapoor, and Shruti Haasan, daughter of Kamal Haasan. Both women have used their platforms to shed light on the physical and emotional challenges posed by PCOS.

The response to Thapar's post was overwhelmingly supportive, with many users praising her for initiating a dialogue around women’s health. One commenter noted, "Very informative, and it takes years to diagnose PCOS." Others echoed concerns about the lack of awareness, with a user stating, "We need more education on this; it took years before I even realised what I was going through."

PCOS is a condition that can manifest in a variety of symptoms, including irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and excessive hair growth. While the causes of PCOS remain unclear, research points to a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Early diagnosis is critical for managing the symptoms and preventing potential complications such as infertility and diabetes.