Body mass index and its correlation with polycystic ovarian syndrome: Insights from a cross-sectional study among MBBS females at a tertiary care hospital.

Shailaja  Moutam; Dr. Varada A.  Hasamnis; Chaganti  Vijaya

doi:10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i6.1996

Authors

Dr. Shailaja Moutam Postgraduate, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation , Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India
Dr. Varada Hasamnis Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation , Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India
Dr. Chaganti Vijaya Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation , Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i6.1996

Keywords:

Body Mass Index, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, Hirsutism, Hyperandrogenism, Waist-Hip Ratio, Polycystic Ovarian Morphology

Abstract

Background:
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a multifactorial endocrine disorder with rising global prevalence among reproductive-aged women. Body Mass Index (BMI) plays a significant role in modulating its clinical presentation.

Objectives:

To evaluate the correlation between BMI and PCOS prevalence and to determine the impact of BMI on clinical and anthropometric features among female medical students.

Methods:

A cross-sectional observational study was conducted at the Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation, Amalapuram, from November 2023 to November 2024. Two hundred female MBBS students aged ≥18 years were enrolled. PCOS was diagnosed using the Rotterdam criteria. Anthropometric parameters, including BMI, waist/hip ratio, and mid-arm circumference, were recorded, and clinical features such as hirsutism (mFG score), acne, alopecia, and acanthosis nigricans were assessed. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 22.

Results:

The mean age of participants was 23.7 ± 3.6 years, with most belonging to the 18–25 year age group. Among 200 students, 74 (37%) were diagnosed with PCOS. The mean BMI, waist/hip ratio, mFG score, and mid-arm circumference were significantly higher in PCOS individuals. A high waist/hip ratio (>0.85) was seen in 70.2% of PCOS participants versus 33.3% of non-PCOS participants. Prevalence was greatest in obese individuals (BMI ≥30 kg/m²), with features including menstrual irregularities, hirsutism (17.9% vs. 5.0%, p = 0.025), alopecia, and polycystic ovarian morphology. Some lean participants (BMI 18.5–24.9 kg/m²) also manifested PCOS, suggesting additional contributing factors.

Conclusion:

The prevalence of PCOS in this cohort was 37%, indicating a considerable burden among young female medical students. Increased BMI correlated strongly with PCOS severity, though normal-weight individuals also exhibited features, highlighting the roles of genetic and metabolic factors.

Recommendations:

Routine BMI screening and lifestyle interventions are essential for reproductive-aged women, irrespective of BMI, to reduce PCOS-related complications and long-term risks.

Author Biographies

Dr. Shailaja Moutam, Postgraduate, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation , Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India

is a dedicated postgraduate in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation, Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India. She completed her MBBS at Maharaja Institute of Medical Sciences, Vizianagaram. With a deep passion for infertility treatment and women’s reproductive health, Dr. Moutam is committed to advancing care for women facing fertility challenges. She strives to integrate the latest medical advancements with compassionate patient care, making a meaningful impact in the field of reproductive medicine.ORCID iD: https://orcid.org/0009-0000-6796-3272

Dr. Varada Hasamnis , Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation , Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India

is currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation, Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India. She obtained her MBBS degree from Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, followed by a Diploma in Obstetrics and Gynaecology from Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College, Mumbai. She further enhanced her academic and clinical expertise by completing a Fellowship in Midwifery and a Diploma in Family Planning from the College of Physicians and Surgeons, Mumbai. With over two decades of extensive clinical experience in women's health, Dr. Hasamnis has developed a strong academic and research portfolio. She has authored 25 scientific publications in reputed medical journals, reflecting her commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional development. ORCID iD: https://orcid.org 0009-0002-8860-7183

Dr. Chaganti Vijaya, Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation , Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India

is an Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Konaseema institute of Medical sciences &Research foundation, Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India. She completed her MBBS from Rangaraya Medical College, Kakinada, and M.S. in Obstetrics and Gynaecology from S V Medical College, Tirupati.ORCID iD: https://orcid.org 0009-0007-9141-5656

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