A new study suggests that women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) may have a 50% higher risk of developing eating disorders, such as binge eating and bulimia.

PCOS, which affects around one in eight to ten women of reproductive age worldwide, is characterized by elevated testosterone levels, irregular menstrual cycles and excessive body hair.

The study, led by Laura Cooney, associate professor at the University of Wisconsin, is the first to confirm an increased risk of specific eating disorders in women with PCOS.

Bulimia is a disorder that involves binge eating followed by vomiting or excessive exercise to prevent weight gain.

It is already known that women with PCOS have a higher risk of developing metabolic problems such as diabetes and reproductive issues, including infertility.

Cooney said many women with PCOS also face weight issues, which can negatively impact their mental health and lead to disordered eating.

The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, analysed data from 20 cross-sectional studies conducted in nine countries, including nearly 29,000 women with PCOS and over 2,50,000 women without the condition.

The findings showed that women with PCOS had a higher risk of eating disorders, regardless of their body mass index (BMI).

The study emphasises the need for healthcare providers to screen for eating disorders in women with PCOS before recommending lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, as these changes may complicate recovery from such disorders.