New research from the eating disorder care provider Equip and Women's Health reveals persistent barriers in healthcare for patients with Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS), previously known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Despite the key rename, systemic issues continue to hinder effective treatment for this condition, which affects millions globally.

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The study, involving 1,048 women and intersex individuals, emphasizes the often-overlooked connection between PMOS and eating disorders, which impact 9% of the U.S. population throughout their lifetimes. Findings show that weight stigma leads to significant delays in diagnosis and care.

Key findings from the research include:

- **Diagnostic Delays and Weight Bias**: 21% of participants waited over five years for a formal PMOS diagnosis. Over 43% reported that healthcare providers attributed their symptoms solely to weight, contributing to these delays.

- **Healthcare Avoidance**: 40% of respondents indicated they avoided or postponed necessary medical care due to negative past experiences related to weight judgment.

- **Overlooked Mental Health Symptoms**: A significant number of respondents reported high levels of distress, with 37% screening positive for depression and 48% for anxiety. More than 60% stated that their doctors rarely or never address the emotional impacts of PMOS.

- **Disordered Eating and Body Image**: The research revealed a high prevalence of disordered eating, with 56% of diagnosed individuals screening positive for eating disorders. Approximately 60% reported feelings of shame regarding their relationship with food.

Dr. Erin Parks, Co-Founder and Chief Clinical Officer at Equip, noted that the focus on weight as a symptom often obscures underlying issues, leaving patients to deal with the emotional burden alone. She advocates for routine mental health screenings within PMOS care to better support both patients and clinicians.

In recognition of PMOS Awareness Month in September, Women's Health has launched an editorial package discussing these findings and emphasizing the need for better care standards that address the full scope of PMOS symptoms, including mental health.

Abigail Cuffey, executive editor of Women's Health, emphasized the need to avoid reducing complex symptoms to mere weight concerns and highlighted the importance of including mental health in treatment discussions.

The study was conducted under IRB approval (Sterling IRB: 16473), ensuring rigorous data quality. Equip provides virtual, evidence-based treatment for eating disorders and is committed to making care accessible across the U.S.

For more about Equip, visit equip.health. Women's Health can be found at womenshealthmag.com.