A case-control study to assess the quality of life among patients diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome infield practice area of a government medical college

Abstract

Background

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age,

characterised by hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction, and polycystic ovaries. Beyond its reproductive and

metabolic implications, PCOS can significantly impact psychological well-being, self-image, and overall quality of

life. Understanding the extent of this impact is essential for the comprehensive management of women with PCOS.

Methodology

A case-control study was conducted among women of reproductive age (18–49 years) to assess quality of life in

women with PCOS. Cases were women diagnosed with PCOS using Rotterdam criteria (requiring 2 out of 3:

hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction, polycystic ovaries on USG), while age-matched controls were women

without PCOS or other chronic illnesses. A sample size of 280 cases and 280 controls (1:1 ratio) was calculated based

on an expected control proportion of 0.1, an assumed odds ratio of 2, 95% confidence, and 80% power. Participants

were recruited through house-to-house surveys in an urban field practice area. Data collection used the WHOQOL

BREF (26-item) pre-validated questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS v28, with descriptive statistics (mean,

SD, CI), Mann-Whitney U test for transformed scores, and Chi-square tests for categorical comparisons. Ethical

approval was obtained, with confidentiality ensured and written informed consent collected from all participants.

Results

The study observed that only 1.4% of cases rated their quality of life as excellent (5/5) compared to 6.4% of controls,

a difference that was highly statistically significant (p<0.001). This indicates that cases were nearly 4.5 times less

likely to report a high quality of life, reflecting a substantial compromise in perceived well-being among cases

compared to controls.

Conclusion

The study found that cases were much less likely than controls to rate their quality of life as excellent, indicating a

significant decline in perceived well-being among cases.