Expert discusses links between PMOS, cholesterol and the heart

Clinician-researcher Dr. Jamie Benham, MD, PhD, is a leading expert in polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS). We sat down with her during Cholesterol Awareness Month to discuss the link between PMOS, cholesterol and the heart. 

What is PMOS?
PMOS (previously known as PCOS) is a hormonal and metabolic condition that affects an estimated 10–13 per cent of reproductive-aged women. PMOS affects the whole body and is associated with elevated androgen levels and insulin resistance. Common symptoms include excess hair growth, acne, hair thinning or loss, irregular periods and fertility difficulties.

Why did the name of this condition change?  
The medical community updated the name in May 2026 to reflect that the condition isn’t just about the ovaries, but rather it impacts the entire body. A goal is to raise awareness that the condition affects the whole body so patients can be better monitored and treated for things like abnormal cholesterol levels. 

What’s the link between PMOS, cholesterol and heart health? 
People with PMOS are at increased risk of abnormal blood lipid levels, including higher triglycerides and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and lower HDL (“good”) cholesterol. These changes can contribute to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

How do we treat metabolic cholesterol issues? 
Managing the metabolic components of PMOS starts with lifestyle. Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity and healthy eating are critical for individuals with PMOS. PMOS patients should also receive regular blood lipid screenings and, if abnormal cholesterol levels are found, speak to their primary care physician about possible treatment options. 

What is the number one misconception that you find yourself constantly correcting in your clinic?
In the past, PMOS was so focused on the ovaries it wasn’t always recognized that the condition impacts the whole body. The name change will hopefully raise awareness that PMOS affects people across their life course in many different ways. 

Tell us about your research. 
I lead the EMBRACE Women’s Health Lab. Our focus is on furthering women’s health, particularly in the area of reproductive endocrine disorders like PMOS and gestational diabetes. Our next activity is to bring together people with lived experience and health care professionals to discuss priorities for managing PMOS. We want to ensure our research supports the priorities of the community. This work is being supported by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. 

Dr. Benham is an assistant professor in the departments of Medicine and Community Health Sciences at the Cumming School of Medicine and a member of the Libin Cardiovascular Institute.