Effectiveness of long-term (twelve months) nonsurgical weight loss interventions for obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review

Fiona Nicholson¹, Catherine Rolland¹, John Broom¹, John Love^2
1Centre for Obesity Research and Epidemiology, Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, Scotland; ²School of Applied Social Studies, Faculty of Health and Social Care, The Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, Scotland

Abstract: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects 2%–26% of women of reproductive age and is often accompanied by obesity. Modest weight loss reduces health risks and ameliorates effects of the syndrome. Weight loss interventions are mainly of short duration and have limited success. A systematic review of the literature was carried out to assess the efficacy of long-term (12 months), nonsurgical weight loss interventions for women with PCOS. Fifteen databases were searched, resulting in eight papers that met the search criteria. Comparison of results and meta-analysis was difficult due to heterogeneity of studies. Behavioral components of interventions were poorly described, and compliance was difficult to ascertain. The results suggested that the inclusion of a lifestyle component improves outcomes, but protocols must be clearly described to maintain study validity and to identify successful behavioral strategies.

Keywords: obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome, weight loss