Prevalence of polycystic ovarian syndrome in South Asian countries and 21 global regions with Sociodemographic index: A systematic analysis of the Global Burden of Disease (1990-2021).

BACKGROUND

This analysis examines both the prevalence and the disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) linked to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) across South Asia and worldwide, drawing on data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 1990-2021 study.

METHODS

Data from GBD 2021 were analyzed using Joinpoint Regression to assess age-standardized prevalence rates (ASPR) and DALYs (ASDR). Sociodemographic index (SDI) was incorporated to evaluate the relationship between socioeconomic factors and PCOS burden. The analysis was conducted across 21 global regions, with Pearson's correlation assessing the association between SDI and PCOS outcomes.

RESULTS

The prevalence of PCOS in South Asia increased significantly, with an average annual percentage change (AAPC) of 1.87 % (95 % CI: 1.85-1.88) from 1990 to 2021. India had the highest prevalence in 2021 (269.8 per 100,000), and the highest total percentage change (TPC) in prevalence (86.9 %). DALYs rate in India were similarly high (11.1 per 100,000. A positive correlation (r = 0.57, p < 0.001) between SDI and both prevalence and DALYs was observed.

CONCLUSION

PCOS prevalence and DALYs are rising across South Asia, with India experiencing the highest burden. Public health interventions should focus on improving awareness, diagnosis, and management, especially in lower SDI regions to mitigate the growing health challenge.