A recent large-scale study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) has found that women diagnosed with endometriosis or uterine fibroids have a slightly higher risk of dying before the age of 70.
Endometriosis, a chronic condition affecting one in ten women worldwide, involves the growth of tissue similar to the uterine lining outside the womb. Additionally, up to a quarter of women may develop non-cancerous growths in their uterus known as uterine fibroids.
Despite their prevalence, both conditions have historically been under-researched, with critics pointing to a male-focused medical establishment that has often overlooked health issues affecting women.
The BMJ study analyzed data from over 110,000 women in the United States, who have been monitored biennially since 1989. While observational research like this cannot establish direct cause and effect, the findings indicate that women with endometriosis or uterine fibroids are more likely to develop other serious health conditions, which contribute to the increased mortality risk.
For instance, uterine fibroids were associated with a higher risk of gynecological cancers, while endometriosis patients faced increased risks related to heart and respiratory diseases, in addition to certain cancers.
The study highlighted that individuals with these conditions had between a nine and 30 percent higher risk of dying before 70 compared to those without these health issues.
\"These findings highlight the importance of doctors closely monitoring patients with endometriosis and uterine fibroids for other potential health problems,\" the study authors emphasized.
Historically overlooked, conditions that specifically affect women are now gaining more attention from researchers and policymakers. Endometriosis, known for causing severe menstrual pain and infertility, remains incurable, underscoring the need for continued research and improved healthcare responses.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
