Endometriosis sufferers have been urged to take part in a government survey as part of an inquiry into the chronic condition that affects more than 1.5million women in the UK. The survey will assess diagnosis, treatment and support available to women dealing with endometriosis.
Led by the All Party Parliamentary Group (APG), in partnership with Endometriosis UK, the inquiry follows a BBC investigation into the impact of endometriosis that found half of sufferers have had suicidal thoughts because of the condition. It also comes after reports that more than 100 women and girls were hospitalised at the Royal Berkshire Trust last year with it.
‘The APPG is delighted to give women with endometriosis and healthcare experts the opportunity to share their first-hand experiences of endometriosis so we can produce a set of recommendations to the Government,’ Sir David Amess MP, Chair of the APPG on Endometriosis said in a statement. ‘The APPG is committed to raising awareness of the condition and representing the views of those affected and we urge as many people to come forward as possible to respond to the inquiry.’
Currently, endometriosis takes an average of 7.5 years to diagnose and costs the UK £8.2bn per year in treatment, loss of work and healthcare costs. An APG report on women’s health in 2018 found that 40% of women saw a doctor 10 times before being referred to a gynaecologist. More than that, 42% feel they weren’t treated with ‘dignity and respect’ by doctors.
This new inquiry therefore intends to rectify this issue, with women’s survey results used to improve processes around diagnosis and treatment. ‘This inquiry is a welcome opportunity for the Government and NHS to get real about the impact of endometriosis on individuals and society, and to take it seriously,’ Emma Cox, CEO of Endometriosis UK said in a statement. ‘The Inquiry provides the Government with the opportunity to deliver recommendations for much needed improvements for the diagnosis, treatment and support of 1.5 million women living with the disease – and reduce the suffering of future generations.
‘We urge all people with endometriosis to take part in the survey,’ she continued. ‘This is a huge opportunity to push for real change for people affected by endometriosis and shape the way care is delivered in the future.’
To take part and respond to the call for evidence, click here.
Read More:
Endometriosis Explained: What It Is, How To Spot It, And How To Get Help
One In Six Endometriosis Sufferers Are Forced To Give Up Work, Costing Them Over £5000 A Year
How Your Period Could Be Costing You £40,000 In Lost Earnings