Abstract

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders affecting women of reproductive age and is frequently associated with insulin resistance and metabolic abnormalities. The present prospective observational study was conducted to evaluate fasting insulin levels and their correlation with metabolic parameters in women diagnosed with PCOS attending SVS Medical College, Mahabubnagar, during the period from December 2025 to February 2026. A total of 58 women aged 18–35 years who fulfilled the Rotterdam diagnostic criteria for PCOS were included in the study. Patients with diabetes mellitus, thyroid disorders, hyperprolactinemia, Cushing’s syndrome, pregnancy, or those receiving steroids, oral contraceptive pills, or metformin were excluded. Fasting insulin levels, Body Mass Index (BMI), Waist-Hip Ratio (WHR), and Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) were assessed. Among the study participants, elevated fasting insulin levels were observed in 25 patients, while 32 patients showed HOMA-IR values greater than 2.5, indicating significant insulin resistance. Overweight and obese women demonstrated a higher prevalence of elevated fasting insulin compared to women with normal BMI. Similarly, increased Waist-Hip Ratio showed a positive association with hyperinsulinemia. The study findings indicate a strong correlation between fasting insulin levels, obesity, central adiposity, and insulin resistance in women with PCOS. Early identification of metabolic abnormalities through fasting insulin and HOMA-IR assessment may help in timely intervention and prevention of long-term complications such as type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease. Routine metabolic evaluation should therefore be considered an essential component in the management of women with PCOS.