Endometriosis Awareness Month, observed in March, was created to shine a light on this widely misunderstood complex hormonal and immune chronic disease that causes multiple symptoms, including pain that disrupts the lives of an estimated 89 million women and girls worldwide.
Understanding Endometriosis
Endometriosis can occur from puberty to menopause and is a long-term condition that sees tissue similar to the lining of the womb grow in other parts of the body, generally on organs in the pelvic cavity such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes and bowel. It can be painful and may have a devastating impact on a woman’s personal and professional relationships, mental health, and quality of life.
The Challenges of Diagnosis and Treatment
“There is no known cure for endometriosis and treatments are often problematic,” said RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group ob/gyn Jessica Opoku-Anane, M.D. “Lack of knowledge of the disease combined with stigma causes an average delay of 10 years from onset of symptoms to diagnosis. At the same time, girls with endometriosis have been shown to be at greater risk for 12 cancers, seven autoimmune diseases, allergic diseases, and heart disease.”
Expanding Expertise and Access to Care
An expertise in endometriosis and all aspects of minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, Dr. Opoku-Anane joined RWJBarnabas Health from Columbia University Irving Medical Center, where she established a Comprehensive Endometriosis Center. The section chief of benign gynecological surgery for Rutgers Health, she said there is a great need for further awareness, education, and research on endometriosis and its related health disorders.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
New research reveals exceedingly low levels of public awareness for the potentially life-changing condition. Despite affecting 1 in 10 women from puberty to menopause, studies show that about 54 percent of people do not know what endometriosis is. Of those that do know endometriosis is a gynecological condition, 35 percent cannot name any symptoms.
“Receiving an early diagnosis and treatment for this condition can have a major impact for patients, especially as they look toward planning a family, but this lack of awareness is contributing to those suffering not receiving the right care at the right time,” she said. “Expanding our efforts to treat patients with endometriosis and taking menstrual and pelvic pain seriously must be a part of our mission to advance women’s health.”
If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of endometriosis, don’t wait to seek help. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a difference. Learn more about women’s health services at RWJBarnabas Health and find a specialist near you.