Department of Health Sciences Chair gives keynote address to World Congress on Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

By Kate Hunger 

George Kudolo, Ph.D., FAIC, FAACC, professor, and chair of the health sciences department hopes to broaden his study of the effect of Ginkgo biloba, a popular herbal supplement, on women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

Kudolo gave a keynote speech at the 4th World Congress on Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, held in London June 7-8. With the theme of “Diagnosis and Intervention of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome,” the meeting featured the research and techniques of educators, researchers, and practitioners from around the world.

Kudolo, appointed chair of the Department of Health Sciences in July, said his address was intended to highlight the need for more research into the effect of Ginkgo biloba on women with PCOS, a fairly common hormonal disorder that shares similarities with insulin resistance syndrome. Ginkgo biloba increases insulin production, which in turn may stimulate the production of androgens in the theca layer of the ovary, he said. 

In his address, Kudolo shared findings from a decade of studies on Gingko biloba in non-diabetic and Type 2 diabetic subjects.

“My discussion there was to bring attention to the fact that although Ginkgo biloba is a very popular dietary supplement that has many beneficial effects, wholesale endorsement is probably not prudent at this time. More studies are needed,” he said.

Women with PCOS often experience infertility and are at risk of cardiovascular disease and other health problems.

Kudolo studied the ovary during his doctoral thesis some 30 years ago at Hammersmith Hospital in London and has been working with Ginkgo biloba for more than a decade.