Jidong ovarian aging cohort study: Objective, design, and baseline characteristics

Background: Ovarian aging is a continuous process comprising a gradual decrease in both the quantity and the quality of the oocytes. A decline in ovarian function leads to chronic disease and physiological problems. The aim of this study is to establish a cohort for the purpose of examining the ovarian aging process and its relationship with health status and quality of life in women across all age groups.

Method: This protocol outlines a community-based, prospective long-term observational study involving 1676 women recruited from Caofeidian District in Tangshan City, Hebei Province, China. Data are gathered by the administration of questionnaires, doing physical examinations, performing blood biochemistry tests, and measuring levels of female hormones. The primary outcomes will be the occurrence of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and other chronic diseases, assessed according to established diagnostic criteria for each disease. The secondary outcome will be the decline in quality of life during the follow-up period, assessed by the modified Kupperman Index. The study comprises a baseline cross-sectional assessment and a follow-up evaluation. The participants will undergo face-to-face interviews as part of their regular medical examinations until 2026 or until the occurrence of outcome events.

Discussion: The results of the prospective study will indicate the association between ovarian aging and the prevalence of chronic diseases as well as diminished quality of life among women across different age categories.