Name one first-line treatment for metabolic abnormalities in PCOS.

Name one first-line treatment for metabolic abnormalities in PCOS.

• A. Ovarian drilling
• B. Radiation therapy
• C. High-sugar diet
• D. Lifestyle modification

Answer: (D)

Lifestyle modification is the foundational approach because metabolic issues in PCOS are driven by insulin resistance that is highly responsive to weight loss and physical activity. Even modest weight loss (about 5–10%) can significantly improve insulin sensitivity, lower hepatic glucose production, reduce circulating androgens, restore ovulatory function, and improve lipid and glucose tolerance. Diet and regular aerobic plus resistance exercise work best when combined and made sustainable for long-term benefit. Other options don’t fit this goal: ovarian drilling aims to induce ovulation rather than address metabolic drivers; radiation therapy is not a treatment for PCOS and would be inappropriate; a high-sugar diet would worsen metabolic abnormalities rather than treat them.

Lifestyle modification is the foundational approach because metabolic issues in PCOS are driven by insulin resistance that is highly responsive to weight loss and physical activity. Even modest weight loss (about 5–10%) can significantly improve insulin sensitivity, lower hepatic glucose production, reduce circulating androgens, restore ovulatory function, and improve lipid and glucose tolerance. Diet and regular aerobic plus resistance exercise work best when combined and made sustainable for long-term benefit.

Other options don’t fit this goal: ovarian drilling aims to induce ovulation rather than address metabolic drivers; radiation therapy is not a treatment for PCOS and would be inappropriate; a high-sugar diet would worsen metabolic abnormalities rather than treat them.