A female academic is investigating whether weight loss drugs could help women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).<\/p>\n
The condition, which affects up to one in ten women, changes how women’s ovaries work and is linked to infertility and weight gain.<\/p>\n
Dr Shagaf Bakour has won a \u00a360,000 NHS research grant through Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust to look at whether drugs like Mounjaro and Ozempic might help.<\/p>\n
“The research could lead to earlier support, better long-term health, and more joined-up care for a condition that affects many women but is still often overlooked,” she said.<\/p>\n
Women with PCOS<\/a> have higher levels of male hormones and can suffer from irregular periods and symptoms such as excess body or facial hair, the NHS said.<\/p>\n Associated weight gain can also lead to an increased risk of diabetes and heart problems.<\/p>\n Bakour, a gynaecologist and director of medical education at Aston Medical School, will work with a team to evaluate the effect of the weight loss medicines on metabolic and reproductive outcomes.<\/p>\n The drugs mimic a hormone called GLP-1, which suppresses appetite.<\/p>\n Bakour, alongside Dr Hoda Harb, a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at the NHS trust, will review existing evidence on their use and assess how they help patients with PCOS.<\/p>\n ‘Emotive subject’<\/p>\n “The aim is to give women with PCOS evidence-informed, clearer treatment options and more consistent care,” she said.<\/p>\n “The project hopes to show whether these medicines can improve both general health and fertility health, while also helping local services develop clearer care pathways.”<\/p>\n Prof Elizabeth Hughes, director of research and development at the NHS trust, said the effects of PCOS, including infertility, were “very emotive subjects”.<\/p>\n “We should be doing all we can within research and development to advance healthcare for women and to better help future generations with this condition,” she added.<\/p>\n Follow BBC Birmingham on BBC Sounds<\/a>, Facebook<\/a>, X<\/a> and Instagram<\/a>.<\/p>\n More stories like thisRelated internet links