Diagnosis list could reduce infertility risk
Australian researchers have developed world-first guidelines to improve the diagnosis and treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome, a largely under-recognised condition that can lead to infertility and other health complications in women.
The hormonal condition affects up to one in five women of a reproductive age, but up to 70 per cent of sufferers remain undiagnosed.
The new evidence-based guidelines will be discussed in Perth this week at a major four-day medical conference, believed to be the biggest gathering of its kind held in WA. It will be attended by more than 1200 health workers, medical practitioners and researchers, with expert guest speakers from around the world.
Healthy lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, are recommended in the new strategy to reduce risk of the condition and better manage its symptoms, which if untreated can be a major cause of infertility.
Women who suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome also have an increased risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, depression and anxiety. The guidelines have been written by the PCOS Australian Alliance and non-profit women's health organisation Jean Hailes.
Jean Hailes research director Professor Helena Teede said many women failed to recognise symptoms such as irregular periods, excess hair and acne, fertility problems and weight gain as connected to the disease.
PCOS Australian Alliance chairman Professor Rob Norman said for the first time patients and health professionals could get unbiased, objective information on how to manage the condition.
A plan for a national database of Australian children with Type 1 diabetes to pave the way for better monitoring and research of the disease will also be debated.
Tim Jones, head of the diabetes department at Princess Margaret Hospital, said a national database was long overdue and with Federal Government funding allocated he believed it could be a reality within 12 months.
He said a database could be expanded gradually to include adults with Type 1 diabetes.
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