Is polycystic ovary syndrome another risk factor for venous thromboembolism? United States, 2003-2008

OBJECTIVE: We sought to determine prevalence and likelihood of venous thromboembolism (VTE) among women with and without polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). STUDY DESIGN: We performed a cross-sectional analysis using Thomson Reuters MarketScan Commercial databases for the years 2003 through 2008. The association between VTE and PCOS among women aged 18-45 years was assessed using age-stratified multivariable logistic regression models. RESULTS: Prevalence of VTE per 100,000 was 374.2 for PCOS women and 193.8 for women without PCOS. Compared with women without PCOS, those with PCOS were more likely to have VTE (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 18-24 years, 3.26; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.61-4.08; aOR 25-34 years, 2.39; 95% CI, 2.12-2.70; aOR 35-45 years, 2.05; 95% CI, 1.84 -2.38). A protective association (odds ratio, 0.8; 95% CI, 0.73-0.98) with oral contraceptive use was noted for PCOS women. CONCLUSION: PCOS might be a predisposing condition for VTE, particularly among women aged 18-24 years. Oral contraceptive use might be protective.