Other Titles
Tackling PCOS Disparities Through Education, Policy and Care
Abstract
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a multifaceted and chronic endocrine disorder, affecting approximately 8–13% of women of reproductive age globally (Teede et al., 2018). It is characterised by clinical and/or biochemical hyperandrogenism, menstrual irregularities, insulin resistance, and polycystic ovarian morphology (Azziz et al., 2016). Beyond reproductive implications, PCOS is associated with long-term risks including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and significant psychological distress (Lizneva et al., 2016).Although PCOS affects approximately 8–13% of women of reproductive age globally (Teede et al., 2018), the diagnostic experience of Black women is marked by prolonged delays, inadequate referrals, and substandard care. These patterns are not merely clinical oversights; they are produced and sustained by implicit bias, racialised assumptions about pain tolerance and resilience, and the gross underrepresentation of Black women in reproductive and endocrine research (Williams et al., 2021; Azziz et al., 2016). Consequently, PCOS remains a significantly under-recognised and mismanaged condition within this population, leading to long-term metabolic, reproductive, and psychological consequences.
Sigma Membership
Phi Mu
Type
Presentation
Format Type
Video Recording
Study Design/Type
Cohort
Research Approach
Translational Research/Evidence-based Practice
Keywords:
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, PCOS, BIPOC, Sustainable Development Goals, United Nations
Recommended Citation
Tibaaga, Stacey L. and Henry, Dionne, "Beyond Fertility" (2025). Global Advocacy. 14.
https://www.sigmarepository.org/ga_series/14
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Rights Holder
All rights reserved by the author(s) and/or publisher(s) listed in this item record unless relinquished in whole or part by a rights notation or a Creative Commons License present in this item record.
Review Type
None: Event Material, Invited Presentation
Acquisition
Self-submission
Date of Issue
2025-10-13
Full Text of Presentation
wf_yes
Description
The author was a participant in Global Advocacy, Sigma's virtual mini academy during the September/October 2025 cohort. This submission represents the academy's required Action Plan Presentation which occurs in week six of the program.