What screening method is recommended for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) to check for diabetes mellitus?

The 2-hour glucose tolerance test (GTT) is recommended for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) as it effectively assesses how the body processes glucose, which is particularly important for this population due to their higher risk of developing insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

PCOS is often associated with metabolic abnormalities, including insulin resistance, which can lead to increased blood glucose levels. The glucose tolerance test evaluates the body's ability to handle a sugar challenge over a two-hour period, providing a comprehensive understanding of how an individual responds to glucose intake.

While the fasting blood glucose test can provide some information about glucose metabolism, it may not capture transient insulin resistance accurately. The HbA1c test reflects average blood glucose over the past two to three months, but it is not as sensitive for diagnosing impaired glucose tolerance as the GTT. The insulin sensitivity test, while beneficial for assessing insulin resistance, is not standard for routine diabetes screening in clinical practice.

Therefore, the 2-hour glucose tolerance test stands out as the most effective screening method for assessing diabetes risk in women with PCOS, enabling timely intervention if necessary.