Global, regional, and national burden of polycystic ovary syndrome, 1990–2021: a comprehensive analysis of trends and projections based on the global burden of disease 2021 study

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a major endocrine disorder that affects women of reproductive age. This study evaluated global disease burden trends (1990–2021) and projected future trajectories to 2050 to inform public health strategies. Using Global Burden of Disease 2021 data, we analyzed PCOS prevalence, incidence, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and correlations with the sociodemographic index (SDI). Trends were assessed <i>via</i> the estimated annual percentage change, and future burden was projected using a Bayesian age-period-cohort model. From 1990 to 2021, global PCOS prevalence among reproductive - age women rose 89.55% to 69.47 million. Incident cases increased 55.90% to 2.30 million, and DALYs surged 87.70% to 607.76 thousand. Regions with rising SDI, particularly South, East, and Southeast Asia, saw the steepest increases in age-standardized rates. The incidence rose most sharply in the 10–19 age group, while the prevalence and DALYs peaked in the 15–49 age group. Projections indicate a continued increase in PCOS burden until 2050. PCOS poses a serious public health challenge, particularly in the medium-SDI regions. This escalating burden underscores the need for targeted interventions, particularly for adolescents and young women, to mitigate its long-term health impacts. Policymakers and clinicians must prioritize PCOS management to address its increasing global prevalence and associated disabilities.