SUPR
Hormones, Reproduction and Emotions
Dnr:

sens2024521

Type:

NAISS SENS

Principal Investigator:

Donghao Lu

Affiliation:

Karolinska Institutet

Start Date:

2024-03-28

End Date:

2025-04-01

Primary Classification:

30302: Public Health, Global Health, Social Medicine and Epidemiology

Allocation

Abstract

Premenstrual disorders, including premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), affect millions of women of reproductive age, with an estimated prevalence of 20-30%. While the etiology of premenstrual disorders remains largely elusive, adult risk factors have been identified. However, recent findings indicate that 70% of individuals with premenstrual disorders experienced symptoms before the age of 20, and twin studies have shown a strong genetic and early environmental influence in the development of these conditions. These insights necessitate further research into genetic and early-life factors contributing to the risk of premenstrual disorders. Although premenstrual symptoms are confined to the days leading up to menstruation, these chronic and cyclical conditions can profoundly impact long-term quality of life. Yet, the comorbidity and health consequences of living with premenstrual disorders from a young age are poorly documented in the realms of women's health and occupational life. Utilizing unique Swedish national registries, Primary care data and a large-scale study comprising 30,000 women providing questionnaire data and biological samples, our objective is to enhance the current understanding of risk factors, comorbidity, and the health impact of premenstrual disorders. Specifically, we aim to: (1) identify genetic and environmental risk factors from the womb to early adulthood for premenstrual disorders; (2) characterize the relationship between premenstrual disorders and other psychiatric conditions, cardiometabolic disturbances, and metabolomic biomarkers, as well as infection, autoimmune diseases, and inflammatory biomarkers; and (3) assess the impact of premenstrual disorders on occupational life, reproductive outcomes, injuries, and broader health impacts, including the effect of pharmacological treatments on these outcomes. Our findings will identify novel genetic and environmental determinants for premenstrual disorders, thereby providing new insights into disease mechanisms for future research. The results may also inform concrete guidelines for the development of preventative strategies, aiming to enhance the quality of life for women living with premenstrual disorders. This research stands to benefit not only the scientific community but also offers practical implications for healthcare professionals and society at large, underscoring the significance of addressing premenstrual disorders as a public health priority.