Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis represent two of the most significant reproductive health challenges, collectively impacting hundreds of millions of individuals globally. While both conditions are characterised by chronic progression and significant impacts on fertility, their epidemiological signatures are shaped by distinct hormonal and inflammatory mechanisms.
Rising numbers of PCOS cases in Asia
Asia represents the region with the highest absolute number of PCOS cases. The surge in Asia is deeply connected to rapid urbanization. Studies indicate a positive correlation between SDI and PCOS prevalence in East and Southeast Asia, suggesting that higher socioeconomic status, often accompanied by a "Westernized" diet and reduced physical activity—is a primary driver of the condition.
|
Asian Region/Country |
Prevalence Detail (2021) |
Infertility Impact |
|---|---|---|
|
China |
5.33 \times 10^{6} cases |
Significant rising burden |
|
Japan |
Highest national ASIR (360.92) |
High diagnostic sensitivity |
|
Southeast Asia |
Most rapid growth in cases |
Linked to nutritional transition |
|
South Asia |
Top growth rate for infertility |
High absolute case counts |
PCOS the growing global crisis:
PCOS is the leading cause of anovulatory infertility, responsible for up to 80% of such cases globally. The reproductive impact of the syndrome is a growing public health crisis, as the number of women seeking fertility treatments for PCOS-related issues has doubled in the last three decades.
Endometriosis; the companion of the global PCOS surge
Endometriosis is estimated to affect 190 million women and girls globally, representing roughly 10% of the reproductive-age population.
Asia accounts for the largest portion of the global endometriosis burden, with an estimated prevalence of 36% among reproductive-age women in select meta-reviews. China and India report the highest absolute numbers of prevalence cases globally. In the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, roughly 13% of women undergoing laparoscopy are diagnosed with endometriosis, but this figure rises to 50% among those presenting with infertility.
Conclusion:
Endometriosis is associated with infertility in 30% to 50% of affected individuals. The condition's impact on fertility is mediated through several pathways, including pelvic anatomy distortion, tubal dysfunction, and a hostile inflammatory environment that impairs egg quality and embryo implantation.
The 2023–2025 analysis of PCOS and endometriosis highlights a period of significant epidemiological change. Globally, PCOS affects between 10% and 13% of reproductive-age women, with its burden rising most rapidly in middle-income Asian and African nations. It remains the dominant cause of anovulatory infertility, affecting over 12 million women today. Endometriosis affects approximately 10% of women globally, with Asia and Africa showing high prevalence rates that were previously under-appreciated. The condition is responsible for infertility in up to 50% of its sufferers, with a measurable reduction in total fertility rates.
