~PCOS cases are spiking in young teens. It is the need of the hour to educate school girls regarding the health effects of PCOS~

MUMBAI, 16 SEPTEMBER, 2022 (GPN):  Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is not only a matter of concern for women of the reproductive age group but even for young teens. Currently, a large number of young teens are getting diagnosed with PCOS due to sedentary lifestyles. In the wake of it, Wockhardt Hospital, Mira Road has come up with a great initiative. The hospital has conducted Awareness Health Talks and campaigns in 4 schools/colleges in the vicinity of Bhayandar and Mira Road areas, and around 900 students participated in the activity and pledged to lead a healthy life.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is seen due to hormonal disorders in teenage girls and women of reproductive age group. Various factors such as obesity, family history, and irregular menstruation can lead to PCOS. One with PCOS will notice a higher production of male hormones. Other red flags of it are insulin resistance, acne, and dark patches on the skin. It is essential to understand the consequences of PCOS and seek timely intervention. Not managing it can invite hypertension, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and infertility in later life. To help young girls clear their doubts and bust myths regarding PCOS, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road has taken a huge step by organizing an interesting awareness activity.

Dr Rajashri Tayshete Bhasale, Consultant Gynecologist & Obstetrician, Laparoscopic Surgeon, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road said, “The awareness regarding PCOS is significantly low in the country among young girls. Signs such as irregular menses, acne, hirsuitism, weight gain, and obesity should not be taken lightly as all these things can raise the risk of PCOS. 4 out of 10 girls of the group 14 – 20 years are suffering from menstrual irregularity, and majority are due to PCOD which are preventable and treatable.

We went to 5 schools/colleges namely SN College, Don Bosco High School, Poddar School & Junior College, Golden English High School located in Bhayandar and Mira Road areas. Around 900 students attended the session. We educated young girls regarding PCOS, its warning signs, the causes, and why it is essential to speak about it and seek timely treatment. We also encouraged the girls to adopt a healthy lifestyle like eating a well-balanced diet, avoiding junk and processed food, staying stress-free, exercising daily, and maintaining an optimum weight. We are happy with the positive response that we received through this activity. Many girls had queries regarding periods which we tackled by giving appropriate solutions. The students even pledged to lead a healthy life. We hope to conduct more such awareness initiatives in the near future for the betterment of society.”

Ravi Vittal, School principal, Golden Nest English High School said, “We thank Wockhardt Hospitals for taking such an amazing initiative and helping the young girls to understand FACTS related to PCOS. We are looking for more such sessions by the hospital and will cooperate in every way possible to make them happen. The session is going to benefit the girls as they were able to clear all their misconceptions related to this condition. We hope the girls will take utmost care of themselves.”

“Menstruation is considered taboo in society, but now many people are coming out in the open and talking about it. Considering the low awareness regarding PCOS, it is important to highlight this topic too. The session on PCOS conducted by Wockhardt Hospital is an eye-opener for us. We will make sure to follow the guidelines given by the experts,” said Cherry, Student. Ends