Prevalence and Risk Factor of Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome among Women of Reproductive Age in Al Najaf City: Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS), formerly known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), is a complex endocrine disorder with significant reproductive and metabolic implications. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of PMOS and identify the clinical and lifestyle risk factors associated with PMOS among women of reproductive age in Al-Najaf City, Iraq.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 890 women of childbearing age in Al-Najaf City. Data were collected using digital survey tools between July and August 2025. Participants were evaluated for menstrual history, clinical manifestations, lifestyle habits, and body mass index (BMI) measurements. Statistical significance was determined using odds ratio (OR) and p-values (p < 0.05).

Results: The prevalence of PMOS was 26.3% (n = 234). Significant risk factors included menstrual irregularity, hirsutism (OR = 4.9), and acanthosis nigricans (OR = 3. 05). A strong genetic component was found, with a family history of PMOS (odds ratio [OR] = 3.01) and diabetes (OR = 1.45) significantly increasing the risk. However, lifestyle factors such as sleep were not significant. Frequent consumption of soft drinks (OR = 1.39) was a notable predictor. A highly significant correlation (p < 0.0001) was found between BMI and PMOS; the prevalence rose progressively from 16.9% in normal weight women to 48% in the extremely obese group.

Conclusions: PMOS is highly prevalent in Al-Najaf and is caused by the synergistic effect of genetic predisposition and metabolic liability. The strong correlation with body mass index suggests that weight reduction and early metabolic disease screening are critical for reducing the public health burden of PMOS in this region.