Androgens and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Abstract

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in reproductive-aged women. Clinical or biochemical signs of androgen excess is a cardinal feature of the syndrome and are present in approximately 80% of women with PCOS. Increased blood pressure and insulin resistance, two major cardiovascular risk factors, are frequently present in women with PCOS. This chapter aims to highlight the fundamental role of androgens in mediating the increased blood pressure and insulin resistance in women with PCOS. This chapter is also a call for action to develop new pharmacological therapies that target the androgen synthesis and androgen receptor activation dysregulation present in women with PCOS. These novel therapies will allow to prevent or mitigate the excess androgen-mediated cardiovascular risk factors that affect women with PCOS.