NUTRITIONAL STATUS ASSESSMENT AMONG WOMEN WITH POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME (PCOS) ATTENDING TO ABU- GRARIB HOSPITALAND AL-YARMOUK TEACHING HOSPITAL OUTPATIENT CLINICS IN AL-KARKH/BAGHDAD (2025)

Abstract

Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome affects about 6–13 percent of women of reproductive age. It is a leading cause of infertility and is associated with insulin resistance, obesity, and high cardiovascular risk. Diet quality plays an important role in managing the condition. Diets high in refined carbohydrates and sugar and low in fruits, vegetables, and dairy worsen symptoms, while balanced, low–glycemic diets support better hormonal and metabolic control. Assessing nutritional status helps identify calorie imbalance, nutrient deficiencies, and dietary problems that can guide effective interventions. Methodology: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from May to July 2025 at the Gynecology and Nutrition Clinics of Abu Ghraib Hospital and Al-Yarmouk Teaching Hospital in Baghdad. A total of 250 women aged 18–45 years with doctor-confirmed Polycystic Ovary Syndrome participated. Data were collected through direct interviews, including personal information, clinical history, and dietary habits. Nutritional assessment used a 24-hour dietary recall based on World Health Organization standards, along with body measurements. A pilot study was performed to test the clarity of the tools. Data were analyzed using statistical software with a significance level of less than 0.05. Ethical approvals were obtained from the Arab Board for Health Specializations and Al-Karkh Health Directorate. Results: The average age of the participants were 28.6 years. About 70 percent were overweight or obese, with an average body mass index of 27.2 kilograms per square meter. Central obesity was common. Only 6 percent met their daily calorie needs, while most had low intake of fruits, vegetables, and milk but high consumption of bread and sweets. Fewer than 21 percent had ever received dietary advice, even though most wanted it. Higher body weight was linked to more severe symptoms, and education level was associated with better dietary awareness. Conclusions: Women diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Baghdad exhibit suboptimal nutritional status alongside a high prevalence of overweight and obesity. The observed diet quality is notably deficient relative to established international dietary guidelines. Consequently, this investigation strongly advocates for the implementation of regular nutritional assessments, the integration of specialized dietitians into the treatment protocol, and the promotion of culturally sensitive, healthy eating patterns.