Abstract

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is common among women of reproductive age (ages 15-49), and it can put patients at higher risk for diseases such as type II diabetes or coronary heart disease. While the mechanisms behind PCOS are poorly understood, it is diagnosed using two characteristics: hyperandrogenism and anovulation. Once diagnosed, many patients are also tested for insulin resistance (IR). While IR is thought of as a symptom of PCOS, this study will examine the effects of treatment of IR to manage symptoms of PCOS rather than treatment of hyperandrogenism. This meta-analysis used data from studies previously published by searching for them using key words such as "polycystic ovarian syndrome," "insulin resistance," "hyperandrogenism," and "medication." These data were organized by symptoms studied, and coded. Information extracted was the title, author(s), date of publication, sample size, group characteristics, interventions, and outcomes of each study. This meta-analysis found that the use of insulin sensitizers as treatment for PCOS did not have a greater effect on symptom management than traditional PCOS medications, such as oral contraceptives. These results are useful in the search for a comprehensive and effective treatment of PCOS and may be useful in a clinical setting for treatment guidance purposes.

Thesis Completion

2023

Semester

Spring

Thesis Chair/Advisor

Chiarelli, Tina

Degree

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

College

College of Medicine

Department

Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences

Degree Program

Biomedical Sciences

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Release Date

5-15-2023

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