Page 7 2009 Winter

Jean Hailes Research Update

With a strong focus on ‘lifestyle’ and prevention to improve health, the Jean Hailes Research Team has a particular interest in the range of lifestyle diseases that affect women. These include unhealthy weight, diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), gestational diabetes, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Improving lifestyle is effective in prevention and is the first line of treatment for many of these conditions.

Journey to diagnosis for women with PCOS

PCOS is a common hormone condition related to lifestyle; often leading to infertility and diabetes. A recent Jean Hailes pilot study investigated the experience of diagnosis, resources and information received and treatment options provided to women with PCOS.

Being diagnosed with a disease such as PCOS is likely to impact on the physical and emotional wellbeing of women. Recent research has meant that there is now more understanding of PCOS, and treatment options. However, there has been a lag in translating this research to both women and health care providers.

This study aimed to understand the experience of being diagnosed with PCOS, including the time taken to diagnosis, information received at the time of diagnosis including expected disease outcomes and treatment options, as well as confidence in available treatment options. Emotional wellbeing in PCOS was also studied.

Results from this study suggest that the experience of diagnosis for women with PCOS is often long and difficult. Limited information is currently provided regarding symptoms and management of PCOS, particularly around lifestyle management, yet many women believed that lifestyle changes would improve symptoms, prevent complications and lead to sustained weight loss. Some women felt frustrated, isolated and unclear about their symptoms and management. Greater awareness, targeted education

and resources are needed for women with PCOS, as well as health professionals. The Jean Hailes Foundation for Women’s Health is continuing to work on resources to address these needs including a specific website developed for both community and health professionals – www.managingpcos.org.au

Study – psychological aspect of type 2 diabetes

The Foundation is looking for women across Australia (aged 18 to 70 years) who have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes to be part of a study that looks at:

attitudes and beliefs about health
emotional wellbeing including mood, body image, and sex life
diet and lifestyle
thoughts about further problems with health

The study will involve anonymously filling out a range of questionnaires in the privacy of your own home and mailing them back, reply paid.

Alternatively, you can complete the questionnaire online. If you would like to know more about this study please go to www.jeanhailes.org.au or contact Melanie Gibson-Helm on 03 9594 7527 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

If you would like more information on any of our studies please call the research unit on 03 9543 9612 or check online.

Content Updated May 20, 2009