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How Urbanisation, Pollution, And Processed Diets Are Driving PCOS In Indian Women
How Urbanisation, Pollution, And Processed Diets Are Driving PCOS In Indian Women
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has become one of the most pressing women's health challenges of our time. More than just irregular periods or acne, it is a complex hormonal condition that impacts fertility, metabolism, and long-term well-being. While genetics plays a role, growing evidence shows that environment and lifestyle are equally powerful drivers, especially in urban India, where prevalence continues to rise.
A Multifactorial Condition
“PCOS does not stem from a single cause; rather, it develops through a combination of lifestyle habits and environmental factors. A recent systematic review shows that lifestyle changes, like a personalised diet, exercise, and behavioural strategies, are now seen as the first-line approach for managing PCOS, particularly for women who are overweight," explains Dr. Kshitiz Murdia, CEO & Whole-Time Director of Indira IVF Hospital Limited.
Symptoms of PCOS and the Scale
The signs of PCOS range from irregular or missed periods to acne, excess facial hair, hair loss, infertility, and weight gain around the abdomen. According to Dr. Onkar Swami, Senior Vice President- Medical Services, Alembic Pharmaceuticals Ltd., the condition affects between 6–13% of women worldwide, with as many as 70% of cases undiagnosed. In India, prevalence is significantly higher, spanning 3.7–36% depending on the region.
The Environmental Burden
Research increasingly shows that PCOS is not only influenced by genetics but also by pollutants present in the air, water, and food. “Exposure to pollutants like heavy metals, insecticides, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) affects human health and reproduction," explains Dr. Swami. Chemicals such as DDT, BHC, and bisphenol A (BPA) are known to mimic hormones, leading to imbalances, insulin resistance, and worsening PCOS symptoms, sometimes even in younger women.
Dr. Murdia adds that air pollution, microplastics, and nanoplastics are emerging as additional concerns. “These pollutants may affect women during prenatal life, childhood, and adulthood, suggesting that environmental exposures accumulate over time and contribute significantly to PCOS risk," he notes.
Lifestyle as a Modifiable Trigger
Alongside environmental pressures, everyday lifestyle choices play a decisive role. Obesity, sedentary routines, and high-calorie processed diets are known to worsen PCOS symptoms. “Even a modest weight loss of 5 to 10 per cent can lead to significant benefits. This can reduce insulin resistance, lower androgen levels, promote weight loss, and restore regular ovulation," says Dr. Murdia.
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Dr. Swami highlights urbanisation amplifies the condition: “Urban women are more often exposed to processed diets, reduced physical activity, and environmental pollutants, leading to increasingly severe types of PCOS."
The evidence is clear: PCOS is shaped by the interplay of genetics, environment, and lifestyle. While we cannot change our genes, minimising harmful exposures, adopting balanced diets, and prioritising regular physical activity can drastically improve outcomes. Recognising the environmental burden alongside lifestyle management may be the key to addressing India's rising PCOS crisis.
Source: News18
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