Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), its associated menstrual patterns, dietary habits, and risk factors among Saudi females in the Makkah region.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 333 women aged 16-50 years using a mixture of snowball and convenience sampling. A validated, pilot-tested questionnaire was administered to assess menstrual patterns, dietary habits, comorbidities, and PCOS diagnosis.
Results: The study surveyed 333 participants regarding their sociodemographic details and awareness of PCOS. The participants were mainly from Jeddah (44.7%) and Makkah (52.3%). The majority (87.1%) were aware of PCOS. Regarding body mass index, 44.1% had a normal weight. Most participants were aged 16-25 years (55.6%). Regarding marital status, 62.2% were single. Additionally, 67.9% did not have children, and 28.2% were not engaged in sports activities. PCOS was reported by 17.4% of the participants. Menstrual irreg ularities, such as absent (11.4%), continuous (2.1%), and intermittent cycles (11.1%), were significantly associ ated with PCOS. Absent cycles increased PCOS risk (OR = 3.69, 95% CI: 1.42-9.58, p-value = 0.007), continuous cycles (OR = 34.37, 95% CI: 5.36-220.52, p < 0.001), and intermittent cycles (OR = 7.56, 95% CI: 2.93-19.49, p < 0.001). A high-carbohydrate, high-fat diet increased the likelihood of PCOS (OR = 2.21, 95% CI: 0.09-0.47, p < 0.001), while a low-carbohydrate, low-fat diet was protective (OR = 0.27, 95% CI: 0.09-0.83, p-value = 0.022).
Conclusion: Menstrual irregularities and poor dietary habits were strongly associated with PCOS among women in Makkah. Early identification and lifestyle interventions, particularly dietary modifications, could play a key role in managing PCOS and improving reproductive health outcomes.

Key words: Polycystic ovary syndrome, prevalence, awareness, Saudi women, Makkah