PCOS, thyroid problems and early heart disease are rising in women: Expert explain the lifestyle and metabolic factors behind the surge

Women have seen an explosion of new conditions caused by their lifestyle, with a notable rise in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid dysfunction and early-onset coronary artery disease over the past decade. While each of these conditions has been evaluated in isolation from one another, they share common interconnectivity by nature of the environmental factors associated with these changes and current lifestyle (nutrition/exercise/diet), increased stress levels, and decreased metabolic/biochemical health. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has been viewed primarily as a reproductive condition, however, PCOS has more recently been recognized as a true metabolic disorder associated with insulin resistance, obesity and chronic inflammation. Similarly, hypothyroidism has been diagnosed more frequently; autoimmune tendencies, nutritional deficiencies, and prolonged stress are commonly cited causes. Both PCOS and a thyroid imbalance can silently increase your cardiovascular risk in the long run. There is a growing concern about the rate at which women are developing risk factors earlier than they used to, especially hypertension, dyslipidaemia and central obesity. The current state of obesity (sedentary lifestyles and ultra-processed diets), sleep deprivation and high cortisol levels is causing this situation to advance. Hormonal fluctuations throughout life’s stages, particularly during perimenopause, only increase that risk. The need for proactive screening is greater than ever. Women of all ages should receive routine metabolic and cardiovascular assessments, even as early as their 30s. Early intervention with weight loss, structured exercise, stress reduction and timely medical treatment may reduce the risk of developing complications later in life by a significant amount. A shift away from being hormone-driven to taking a more holistic, metabolic approach will provide a foundation that protects women’s long-term health.