PCOS Crisis in Pakistan: Over Half of Women Undiagnosed, Experts Warn
Over 52% of Pakistani women suffer from PCOS, with more than 80% undiagnosed, sparking a national infertility crisis. Experts urge early screening, awareness, and tech-driven support.
A silent reproductive health crisis is unfolding in Pakistan as experts reveal that over 52% of women of reproductive age suffer from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), with more than 80% of cases going undiagnosed. This alarming situation was highlighted at an international conference held in Islamabad, jointly organized by the PCOS, Adolescent and Reproductive Health Society of Pakistan, Endometriosis and Adenomyosis Society, and local healthcare firm PharmEvo.
The event brought together top gynaecologists, endocrinologists, and maternal health experts from Pakistan and abroad. They voiced deep concern over the widespread lack of awareness and late diagnosis of PCOS, a hormonal disorder that significantly affects fertility, metabolism, and mental well-being.
Prof Dr Rizwana Chaudhry described the situation as a “silent health emergency,” noting that many women discover they have PCOS only after facing fertility problems or repeated miscarriages. “This condition often remains hidden for years, damaging hormonal balance, mental health, and overall well-being,” she said.
Unlike global PCOS rates of 4–18%, Pakistan’s numbers are worryingly higher due to multiple factors, including genetic predisposition from cousin marriages, rising obesity, poor diet, lack of physical activity, and deeply rooted cultural stigma surrounding menstruation and reproductive health.
Dr Ghazala Mahmood emphasized the importance of early intervention. “Most girls don’t understand the warning signs — irregular periods, acne, and facial hair. These are brushed off or never discussed. By the time they seek help, the damage is already done,” she said. She proposed launching screening programs in schools and colleges.
Dr Hani W Fawzi, a consultant from the UK’s NHS, called PCOS a “wicked problem” requiring a multidisciplinary national approach. “PCOS isn’t just a gynaecological issue. It affects the entire body and mind. We need joint efforts from doctors, dieticians, psychologists, and public health experts,” he said.
Brigadier Dr Mamoona Mushtaq added that myths around menstruation and fertility continue to block access to diagnosis and care. “Girls are taught to stay silent about their bodies. That silence is costing them their health,” she warned.
Dr Saima Zubair shared a promising update on a tech-driven initiative — an AI-powered chatbot launching in September, designed to help women self-screen for PCOS and get connected to nearby specialists.
Nabeel Akhtar, PharmEvo’s Business Unit Head, reiterated the company’s commitment to raising awareness. “It’s not just about offering treatment. We need to educate women, families, and communities. The first step to solving this crisis is awareness.”
The conference concluded with a joint appeal to the Ministry of Health to include PCOS education, screening, and support services in the national health agenda. Experts agreed that without urgent action, Pakistan’s reproductive health burden will continue to rise — silently and devastatingly.
