. PCOS can increase the risk of heart disease in several ways:
- Insulin resistance: PCOS is often associated with insulin resistance, meaning the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. This can lead to increased blood pressure, high cholesterol, and other risk factors for heart disease.
- Inflammation: PCOS is linked to chronic inflammation, which can contribute to heart disease by damaging blood vessels and increasing the risk of blood clots.
- Metabolic syndrome: Women with PCOS are at a higher risk of developing metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, including obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol levels.
- Hormonal factors: The hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS can also contribute to heart disease risk.
- Obesity: PCOS is often linked to obesity, which is a major risk factor for heart disease.
