UK health officials recommend annual reviews for millions with renamed hormone condition

Health officials announced that women with polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome should receive annual reviews to monitor symptoms, assess treatment, and manage long-term health risks. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence issued the draft guideline. It states the condition affects between three and four million women in the UK and is frequently underdiagnosed.

Diagnosis and name change The guideline recommends investigation for women who have irregular or absent menstrual cycles along with signs of elevated male hormones. Officials noted that the condition was previously called polycystic ovarian syndrome until experts changed the name to reduce diagnostic delays.

Treatment recommendations The draft guideline does not recommend laser or light therapies for excess hair growth. Officials cited a lack of clinical evidence and uncertainty about cost-effectiveness, estimating such treatments could cost the NHS up to £100 million per year in England.

The guideline instead recommends use of a contraceptive pill for managing excess hair growth. It also includes recommendations on fertility care, mental health support, and addressing long-term health risks.