Diseases & Conditions
Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Polycystic Ovarian Disorder - Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Prevention & Expectations
What can be done to prevent the disease?
There is no known way to prevent polycystic ovarian syndrome. A woman may be able to lower her risk factors with good weight management. It's also important to seek effective treatment for breast cancer or high blood pressure.
What are the long-term effects of the disease?
The long-term effects of polycystic ovarian syndrome depend on the woman's condition and her response to treatment, but they may include:
endometrial hyperplasia, or a buildup of cells that line the uterus, which increases her risk for cancer of the uterus
heart disease later in life
insulin resistance, which can contribute to obesity and diabetes
What are the risks to others?
Polycystic ovarian syndrome is not contagious and poses no risk to others.