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Wednesday, 20 February 2008

South Australian women who may be suffering from a common hormone problem have the chance to find out more about the condition and how it can be treated at a free public health seminar at the University of Adelaide tonight.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) can affect women from as early as puberty, and can continue through and beyond the reproductive years. If the symptoms remain untreated, women run a higher risk of heart disease, cancer and diabetes.

"Unfortunately, because of the nature of the syndrome and its symptoms, many women who have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome don't know that they have it," says Professor Rob Norman, Director of the University's Research Centre for Reproductive Health.

"This seminar will provide more information, practical ideas and the opportunity to ask questions. Importantly, it will give women who have these symptoms a chance to understand what the problem is and what they can do about it," he says.

Symptoms include:

• Excess facial and/or body hair, or hair loss
  
• Acne on the face and/or body
  
• Irregular or missed periods
  
• Problems getting pregnant
  
• Weight problems including obesity
  
• Polycystic ovaries on ultrasound

"The symptoms of PCOS can be treated successfully. However, if untreated they can lead to other health problems and reduced quality of life," Professor Norman says.

WHAT: Public health seminar on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
SPEAKERS: Professor Rob Norman, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Adelaide; and Ms Juli Stopp, member of the public and PCOS sufferer
WHERE: Florey Lecture Theatre, Level 1, Medical School North, Frome Road, Adelaide (entrances will be clearly sign posted)
WHEN: 7.15pm- 9.00pm, Wednesday 20 February
COST: Free, but a gold coin donation will be appreciated
BOOKINGS: Phone the Health Information Centre at the Children's, Youth and Women's Health Service on (08) 8161 6875 or email: cywhs.healthinformation@cywhs.sa.gov.au