Harmonizing research outcomes for polycystic ovary syndrome (HARP), a marathon not a sprint: current challenges and future research need.

Investing in clinical research and evidence-based medicine has helped to improve the care for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). However, several important questions remain unanswered on the optimal prevention and management strategies for PCOS. Addressing this uncertainty is often hindered by suboptimal research conduct leading to inefficient evidence synthesis and research wastage.

Harmonising research outcomes for polycystic ovary syndrome: an international multi-stakeholder core outcome set.

Study Question: What are the key core outcomes to be reported in studies on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

Summary Answer: We identified 3 generic and 30 specific core outcomes in 6 specialist domains: metabolic (8), reproductive (7), pregnancy (10), oncological (1), psychological (1) and long-term outcomes (1).

What Is Known Already: Research reporting PCOS is heterogeneous with high variation in outcome selection, definition and quality.

Study Design, Size, Duration: Evidence synthesis and a modified Delphi method with e-surveys were used as well as a consultation meeting.