LIFESTYLE PATTERNS IN ADOLESCENT GIRLS WITH POLYENDOCRINE METABOLIC OVARIAN SYNDROME VERSUS HEALTHY CONTROL

Abstract

Background: Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) previously named as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder associated with reproductive, metabolic and psychological complications. Reduced physical activity and poor sleep may further increase its clinical burden. This study compared physical activity and sleep quality between females with PCOS and healthy controls. Methods: This comparative cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Holy Family Hospital, Rawalpindi. Sixty participants were recruited through non-probability consecutive sampling, including 30 participants with PCOS and 30 healthy controls. Anthropometric characteristics were recorded using a structured data-collection form. Physical activity during the preceding seven days was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Long Form and expressed as metabolic equivalent of task minutes per week (MET min/week). Sleep quality during the preceding month was evaluated using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). A global PSQI score greater than 5 indicated poor sleep quality. Between-group comparisons were performed using appropriate statistical tests, with p≤0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Age and height were comparable between the PCOS and control groups. Participants with PCOS had significantly greater median weight than controls [73.2 kg (IQR: 67.7–79.6) versus 61.7 kg (IQR: 55.9–70.3); p<0.001] and a higher mean BMI (28.6±4.6 versus 23.9±2.7 kg/m²; p<0.001). Mean physical activity was significantly lower in the PCOS group (1,232.7±699.3 versus 2,121.0±825.4 MET-min/week; p<0.001). The mean global PSQI score was significantly higher among participants with PCOS (9.7±3.3 versus 5.0±2.1; p<0.001). Poor sleep quality was observed in 86.7% of the PCOS group and 46.7% of controls (p=0.003). Conclusion: Participants with PCOS demonstrated higher weight and BMI, lower physical activity and poorer sleep quality than healthy controls. Routine PCOS management should incorporate physical activity promotion, weight sensitive counselling and sleep assessment.