Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), which is now referred to as PMS, is a common issue among women. It arises from a hormonal imbalance that leads to elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) in a woman's body, which prevents normal ovulation. Although the exact cause of PCOS has not been established in modern medicine, it is considered an endocrine and metabolic condition. Experts are discussing the possibility that this disease may contribute to the development of breast cancer.
Dr. S.V.S. Dev, Head of the Department of Surgical Oncology at Max Hospital in Saket, Delhi, provided information on this matter. Dr. S.V.S. states that PCOS has become very common among women and is observed even at younger ages. This condition can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol, endometrial hyperplasia, or endometrial cancer.
According to existing scientific data, there is no direct link proving that polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) significantly increases the overall risk of breast cancer. Major medical organizations, such as the American Cancer Society, state that the risk of breast cancer in women with PCOS does not increase excessively. However, PCOS significantly increases the risk of endometrial cancer.
Although PCOS itself is not a direct cause of breast cancer, these two conditions share common metabolic and hormonal characteristics, such as insulin resistance and obesity. Insulin resistance and a high body mass index (BMI) are common features of PCOS and are considered risk factors for breast cancer development.
Dr. Dev notes that oral contraceptives are often prescribed to control PCOS symptoms and normalize the menstrual cycle. Long-term use of external hormones may increase the risk of breast cancer developing before menopause.
To prevent PCOS, it is recommended to focus on nutrition, engage in physical exercise for at least half an hour daily, maintain weight control, and avoid mental stress.