Abstract

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine-metabolic disorder affecting 6-10% of women of reproductive age. While the pathophysiology of PCOS remains complex, recent studies suggest trace elements, such as zinc, may play a significant role in its development and management.
Objectives: This study aimed to assess the relationship between serum zinc levels and the presence of PCOS among women visiting the outpatient clinics at Basrah Maternity and Children's Hospital.
Methods: A prospective case-control study was conducted from October 2023 to September 2024, involving 150 women: 50 diagnosed with PCOS and 100 healthy controls. Participants were stratified by body mass index (BMI) and serum zinc levels were measured. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 26, employing Chi-square tests for categorical variables and independent t-tests for continuous variables, with a significance level set at p ≤ 0.05.
Results: The study revealed significantly lower serum zinc levels in women with PCOS compared to controls (63.8 ± 20.6 μg/dL vs. 76.8 ± 22.7 μg/dL, p = 0.002). In the PCOS group, those with obesity demonstrated even lower zinc levels (60.71 ± 3.01 μg/dL vs. 71.2 ± 5.4 μg/dL in obese controls, p = 0.024). Furthermore, elevated luteinizing hormone (LH) levels were observed in PCOS women, correlating with lower zinc levels.
Conclusions: The findings indicate a significant association between reduced serum zinc levels and the presence of PCOS, particularly in obese women. This suggests that zinc deficiency may exacerbate the hormonal imbalances characteristic of PCOS, highlighting the importance of monitoring zinc status in managing this syndrome.