Funding outcome

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common hormone-menstrual disorder in women. It affects 10% of women across the lifespan. The diagnosis of PCOS includes having two out of three of the following criteria: excess androgens, irregular periods, and/or polycystic ovaries. We have found that in Alberta, Canada, PCOS is associated with an increased risk of adverse health outcomes including diabetes, cardiovascular disease and mental health conditions. We have also found women with PCOS experience challenges with body weight, diet and nutrition, body image, anxiety and depression. Eating disorders have been reported in PCOS and are associated with altered nutrition status and mental health conditions. Currently, eating disorders are not well understood in PCOS and there are very limited data on the topic in Canada. The aim of this research project is to investigate the current state of knowledge, prevalence and the types of eating disorders in Canadian women with PCOS. The objectives include: i) Undertaking a review of the literature on eating disorders in PCOS. We will undertake a scoping review using literature databases to determine the incidence, types and possible causes of eating disorders in PCOS. ii) Developing a survey to determine incidence and types of eating disorders in a Canadian PCOS cohort. We will adapt existing eating disorder assessment tools to develop a survey in our established Canadian PCOS cohort. iii) Implementing the survey and obtaining preliminary data on eating disorders in a Canadian PCOS cohort. Expected outcomes will include generating a review of the literature of eating disorders and the first data in Canada on the prevalence and types of eating disorders in PCOS. We envision the data generated will lead to future research and development of patient education and improved health care resources for those living with eating disorders and PCOS.