Medical community renames PCOS to polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome

The medical community has officially renamed polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) to polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS). This change, announced by the journal The Lancet, aims to more accurately reflect the systemic nature of the condition and move away from the historical emphasis on the term ‘cyst,’ which can be misleading as many patients do not develop ovarian cysts.

The new terminology addresses three primary physiological axes: polyendocrine, involving hormonal imbalances and androgen excess; metabolic, acknowledging links to insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular risks; and ovarian, relating to reproductive health and menstrual irregularities.

Estimates from the World Health Organization suggest the disorder affects between 10% and 13% of women of reproductive age, though approximately 70% of cases remain undiagnosed. Experts note that while the diagnostic criteria remain consistent, the name change provides better recognition for the wide variety of metabolic and endocrine symptoms patients experience.