Perceived Diabetes Risk and Provider Risk Communication Based on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Status

Introduction and Objective: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects 6-13% of reproductive-aged women and is linked to insulin resistance and increased type 2 diabetes risk. This study aimed to assess the association between PCOS status, diabetes risk perception, and provider communication about diabetes risk among women of childbearing age . Methods: We analyzed cross-sectional survey data (N = 472; 86 with PCOS, 386 without). Outcomes included perceived diabetes risk (TRI-Score) and self-reported provider communication about increased diabetes risk, with PCOS status as the primary independent variable. Logistic regression was used to identify the association between provider communication and PCOS status. Two linear regression models were used to assess perceived diabetes risk (from PCOS status alone, and from PCOS status plus provider communication). All models were adjusted for body mass index (BMI) and American Diabetes Association (ADA) risk classification. Results: Mean age was 34 ± 6.2 years, and about 20% identified as racial/ethnic minority groups, with no differences by PCOS status. Those with PCOS had a higher mean BMI (37.1 vs. 30.1, p < .001) and were more likely to meet ADA high-risk criteria (53% vs. 30%, p < .001). After adjusting for BMI and ADA risk classification, both PCOS status (b = 1.52, p = .002) and provider communication about increased diabetes risk (aOR = 6.1, 95% CI = 2.66-14.14, p < .001) were independently associated with higher perceived diabetes risk. However, in the model including both predictors, only provider communication remained significant (p < .001), while the association for PCOS was no longer significant (p = .34). Conclusion: While those with PCOS reported higher perceived diabetes risk, provider communication was the strongest predictor of risk perception. These findings underscore the role of provider communication in shaping diabetes risk awareness and supporting diabetes prevention efforts, independent of clinical risk. Disclosure: C.P. Poynot: None. S. Lee: Research Support; Current; Clairvoyant Networks, Olera. S.E. Simonsen: None. Funding: Consortium of Rural States (CORES) Multi?Institutional Pilot Program