MPs launch inquiry to investigate challenges faced by 1.5 million with endometriosis
Everyone with endometriosis is urged to respond to a call for evidence after MPs have today launched an inquiry into endometriosis. The inquiry will see patients and healthcare practitioners share their first-hand experiences and advise the Government on what steps need to be taken to ensure people with endometriosis are getting the right care at the right time.
The news follows a study conducted by the BBC which highlighted the potentially devastating impact endometriosis can have – including on education, career, and mental health, with around half stating they have experienced suicidal thoughts.[1]
The new inquiry, led by the APPG (All Party Parliamentary Group) on Endometriosis with support from Endometriosis UK, will investigate the many challenges facing those with endometriosis, and what steps the Government needs to take to turn this around.
Sir David Amess MP, Chair of the APPG on Endometriosis said: “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. 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”.
Endometriosis not only takes a shocking average of 7.5 years to diagnose, but it also costs the UK £8.2bn a year in treatment, loss of work, and healthcare costs[2], and can have a significant impact on an individual’s physical and mental health.
Emma Cox, CEO of Endometriosis UK said: “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. 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. 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 respond to the call for evidence, visit https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/APPGEndometriosis
[1] BBC research in October 2019 found that of over 13,500 respondents: Nearly all said it had badly affected their career, sex life and mental health, most said it had impacted on their education, most said they rely on prescription painkillers every month including potentially addictive opioids, and around half said they had experienced suicidal thoughts: https://www.endometriosis-uk.org/news/bbc-research-announced-today-wake-call-provide-better-care-15-million-endometriosis-37606#.Xihxbcj7SUk
[2] Simoens S, Dunselman G, Dirksen C, et al. The burden of endometriosis: costs and quality of life of women with endometriosis and treated in referral centres. Hum Reprod 2012;27(5):1292-9.
