Environmental and Molecular Determinants of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Evidence from Cosmetic-Derived Endocrine Disruption in Nigerian Women

Ijeoma Evangeline Umeche¹, Mathew Folaranmi Olaniyan², Uchechukwu Christiana Umeche³, Nkiruka Chinenye Nwoka⁴

Keywords: Polycystic ovary syndrome, endocrine-disrupting chemicals, cosmetics, androgen receptor, Nigeria

DOI: 10.63475/yjm.v5i1.0287

DOI URL: https://doi.org/10.63475/yjm.v5i1.0287

Publish Date: 22-04-2026

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Author Affiliation:

1 Lecturer I, PhD, Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Edo State University, Uzairue, Edo State, Nigeria
2 Professor, Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Edo State University, Uzairue, Edo State, Nigeria
3 Consultant, Department of Optometry, Enugwu-ukwu Specialist Hospital, Enugwuukwu, Anambra State, Nigeria
4 Lecturer II, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, Department of Chemical Pathology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects 5% to 10% of reproductive-age women globally, with rising prevalence suggesting environmental contributions beyond genetic predisposition. This study investigated cosmetic-derived endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) exposure as a modifiable environmental risk factor for PCOS.

Methods: We conducted a case-control analysis nested within a cross-sectional study of 126 women in Edo State, Nigeria. Cases were cosmetic users with PCOS (n = 42), while controls included cosmetic users without PCOS (n = 42) and non-cosmetic users (n = 42). Environmental exposure patterns, hormonal profiles, and genetic markers were analyzed to identify risk factors for PCOS development.

Results: PCOS prevalence among cosmetic users was 50% (42/84), representing a 4-fold increase over population estimates (12%–14%) in Nigeria. Cosmetic use duration >3 years was associated with increased PCOS risk (odds ratio [OR] = 3.8 [95% CI, 1.9–7.6]; P < 0.001). Daily use of >5 products further elevated risk (OR = 2.7 [95% CI, 1.4–5.2]; P = 0.003). Androgen receptor gene upregulation was equally prevalent in PCOS and non-PCOS cosmetic users (61.9%), suggesting early molecular changes preceding clinical manifestations.

Conclusions: Cosmetic-derived EDC exposure represents a significant modifiable environmental risk factor for PCOS. These findings support targeted prevention strategies and regulatory oversight of cosmetic ingredients to reduce disease burden.

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