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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PCOSA to Host Only Event Dedicated to Most Prevalent Women's Hormonal Disorder

Portland, Oregon - April 22, 2002
The Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Association (www.pcosupport.org), a support group dedicated to the syndrome for which it is named, today announced their 5th annual and the only annual conference dedicated to the coverage of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). "The PCOS Puzzle - Piecing it Together" will be held on May 30 - June 1, 2002 in Minneapolis, MN and will be a premiere educational and networking opportunity for sufferers of PCOS and medical professionals.

The most common endocrine disorder for women, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a complex hormonal disorder effecting 5 to 10 percent of all women worldwide, of all ages and ethnic groups and is a leading cause of infertility in women. It is named for the numerous cysts that often form in a woman's ovaries when the hormonal imbalance disrupts ovulation. PCOS is characterized by a mysterious variety of symptoms including lack of, infrequent or irregular menstrual cycles, hirsutism or excessive body hair growth, weight gain, obesity, baldness and thinning hair, adult acne, depression, skin tags or teardrop-shaped pieces of skin and acanthosis nigricans or patches of rough brown to black skin. Although the true cause of PCOS is not yet known, medical research has demonstrated a relationship to insulin resistance or the bodyÕs failure to respond to insulin properly. If the hormonal imbalance in women with PCOS is left untreated, it may lead to life-threatening illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke and uterine and endometrial cancers.

"PCOS is a complex medical condition, and the women who struggle with its diverse symptoms benefit greatly from educational programs and a well-developed support network," said Jeffrey Chang, M.D., Professor at the University of California, San Diego, Department of Reproductive Medicine, a recognized expert on PCOS and Chairman of this year's conference. "Each year, more and more women attend PCOSA's annual conference and receive the information necessary to actively participate in their own medical care, minimize life-threatening risks, and greatly improve their quality of life."

About PCOSA

Founded in 1998, the Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Association (www.pcosupport.org), is a non-profit organization operated by women with PCOS. PCOSA promotes awareness of PCOS to consumers and the medical community and serves as a support system for women with PCOS. For more information call (877) 775-PCOS or visit our web site at www.pcosupport.org.

Contact: Carol Arnold
Director of Marketing, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Association
carnold@pcosupport.org
(978) 486-4208.