A global campaign is underway to raise awareness about the renaming of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) to Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS). This condition impacts more than 3.1 million individuals in the UK, affecting various aspects such as weight, metabolic health, mental health, hormones, skin, and reproductive system.
Although PCOS was previously thought to involve abnormal ovarian cysts, recent research has shown no increase in these cysts among individuals with the condition. This discovery has prompted experts to advocate for a name change to PMOS to improve understanding, diagnosis, and treatment for affected individuals.
Professor Helena Teede, the Director of Monash University’s Monash Centre for Health Research & Implementation, emphasized the importance of the name change in enhancing long-term outcomes for those with the condition. The journey towards renaming PCOS, now published in The Lancet medical journal, began 14 years ago in collaboration with global experts and individuals with firsthand experience of the disorder.
The transition to the new name, PMOS, will occur over the next three years, with full implementation expected in the 2028 International PMOS Guideline update. The new name was selected based on principles that prioritize patient benefit, scientific accuracy, ease of communication, avoidance of stigma, and cultural appropriateness.
This renaming initiative marks a significant milestone in advancing clinical practices and research worldwide. Professor Terhi Piltonen, President of the AE-PCOS Society, highlighted the careful selection of the new name to ensure it is inclusive and scientifically precise across diverse cultural contexts.
Rachel Morman, Chair of Verity (PCOS UK), praised the new name for highlighting the hormonal and metabolic aspects of the condition, which she believes will lead to a more serious consideration of PCOS as a complex health issue. The Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation website offers additional information and resources on PMOS.
