Miss Hong Kong Lisa Tse's PCOS diagnosis and her proactive approach to treatment

Lisa Tse Ka-yi, the 30-year-old winner of Miss Hong Kong 2020 who announced her departure from TVB last year, recently revealed in an online interview that she has been diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). She shared that she experienced symptoms like headaches and hair loss, which she later discovered were likely linked to the condition. What are the symptoms of PCOS, and how can it be managed?

Since winning the crown in 2020, Lisa Tse has been beloved by audiences. However, after filming "Come Home Love: Lo and Behold," she gradually stepped back from the spotlight, explaining, "I had some family issues in the UK; a trip that was supposed to be one month turned into three. People in my family kept being diagnosed with cancer, and my mental health broke down." She formally announced her departure from TVB in 2025. Recently, in an online interview, she disclosed her diagnosis of PCOS.

Lisa's discovery of PCOS wasn't accidental; her body had been sending health warnings likely related to this gynecological condition, including long-term migraines and hair loss. Instead of passively accepting her fate, she chose to take proactive steps. She said, "The doctor said I'd need hormone treatment for the rest of my life, but I didn't want that. So I researched, changed my diet, reduced stress, and used holistic therapies to manage my health. I believe many things can be managed through lifestyle."

She hopes that by sharing her story, she can raise awareness among women about health issues like PCOS. She encourages everyone to be more proactive about their bodies and offers support to those concerned about others' opinions: "Live in a way you feel is right, don't care too much about others' judgments, enjoy every moment because life is too short."

3 Major Symptoms of PCOS: How Many Periods Per Year is a Concern?

According to the Mayo Clinic website, PCOS is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age. Symptoms often start around the time of the first menstrual period but can also develop later. Symptoms vary, but a diagnosis is typically made if at least two of the following three criteria are present:

1. Irregular Periods: Infrequent, irregular, or prolonged menstrual cycles are the most common sign. For example, having fewer than nine periods a year, cycles longer than 35 days, or abnormally heavy periods. This can also lead to difficulty getting pregnant.
2. Excess Androgen (Male Hormone): Elevated levels of male hormones may result in physical signs such as excessive facial and body hair (hirsutism), severe acne, and male-pattern baldness (hair thinning or loss).
3. Polycystic Ovaries: Ovaries might be enlarged and contain numerous small, fluid-filled sacs (follicles) that surround the eggs. This can lead to ovaries not functioning regularly.

Note: Signs and symptoms are often more severe in individuals with obesity. Potential complications of PCOS include infertility, gestational diabetes or pregnancy-induced high blood pressure, miscarriage or premature birth, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, increased cardiovascular disease risk, type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, sleep apnea, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and endometrial cancer.

What Causes PCOS?

The exact cause of PCOS isn't fully understood but may involve several factors:

• Insulin Resistance: Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, where cells don't respond normally to insulin. The body compensates by producing extra insulin. High insulin levels can increase androgen production and disrupt ovulation.
• Low-Grade Inflammation: Women with PCOS often have chronic low-grade inflammation, which may stimulate polycystic ovaries to produce more androgens.
• Heredity: Research suggests certain genes might be linked to PCOS.
• Excess Androgen: The ovaries produce abnormally high levels of androgen, which can interfere with ovulation and cause symptoms like hirsutism and acne.

8 Ways to Help Manage PCOS: Swap This Meat for Red Meat

Besides seeking medical advice when necessary, nutritionist Minmin Gao has pointed out that dietary and lifestyle changes can help manage PCOS. The following 8 habits can aid in maintaining hormonal balance and reproductive health:

1. Increase Omega-3 Intake: Helps maintain female hormonal balance.
2. Supplement with Zinc: Supports female reproductive health.
3. Reduce Heavy/Processed Foods: Cut down on salty and sugary foods.
4. Choose White Meat Over Red Meat: Opt for moderate amounts of white meat (like poultry, fish) instead of red meat.
5. Control Refined Carbohydrates: Choose whole grains over white rice and refined pasta.
6. Limit Caffeine Intake: Keep daily caffeine intake below 300-400 mg.
7. Exercise Regularly: Avoid prolonged sitting or standing.
8. Manage Weight: Maintain a normal BMI (between 18.5 and 24).