Lighting the Way

Researcher creates key resources for PCOS diagnosis and care

Common hormonal disorder leads to higher risk of heart disease, obesity and diabetes

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“From infertility to painful, erratic periods and weight gain, polycystic ovary syndrome — or PCOS — has plagued Paula de Gannes-Beckles for most of her life.

Diagnosed as a pre-teen, she’s now a patient partner on a University of Alberta research team with a mission to reduce the risks of serious, long-term health effects on young women with the hormonal disorder.

“This is so important to our wellness,” says de Gannes-Beckles. “A lot of women with PCOS do not know about the cardiac risks. And it’s fearful! It’s so scary.”

She monitors her heart health and has made lifestyle, exercise and diet changes with the help of researcher Donna Vine, who leads the study into the progression of heart disease in young women with PCOS, which affects up to 15 per cent of people with ovaries.

People with PCOS can have enlarged follicles in the ovary that appear like cysts. It affects ovulation and menstrual function, causing problems with fertility as well as acne or hair growth on the face or body. It’s also associated with other health issues, such as weight gain, diabetes and heart disease.”

For more information:

2024-25 WCHRI Report:  https://ar.wchri.org/
Dr. Vine, Researcher creates key resources for PCOS diagnosis and care – Lighting the Way