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42 million women in India are burdened with Endometriosis
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Campaign kicks off in Delhi, followed by Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad & Kolkata
In observance of Endometriosis Awareness Month, Patient Academy for Innovation and Research with Support from BAYER commenced the first leg of the EndoRun in Delhi, on 12th March. The EndoRun is a mass awareness initiative that will bring together survivors and their families, healthcare providers, researchers, and advocates, to march for a shared cause around Endometriosis. The goal is to raise awareness about endometriosis, spark a national conversation around the condition, and call for greater support and resources for individuals and families affected by it. The awareness initiative saw more than 150 participants from various patient groups.
Endometriosis is a common, chronic, gynaecological condition, which affects over 247 million women globally and 42 million women in India. It is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus. Women with endometriosis suffer from chronic pelvic pain, fatigue, depression, and infertility. Diagnosis of the condition is often delayed by 6-10 years, significantly reducing a woman’s overall quality of life. This also impacts academic performance and work productivity, thus causing a large socio-economic burden. The information on clinical presentation, the severity of the condition and associated risk factors for endometriosis are also very limited in India.
Dr. Ratna Devi, Director Patient Academy for Innovation and Research, said, “It is important to create awareness due to the delay in diagnosis and treatment. Most women live through excruciating pain and other severe symptoms and their voices are unheard or dismissed. Advocating for better diagnosis and early treatment is an urgent need. Women must be provided with a safe space to discuss and support each other through this experience”.
“Endometriosis is a condition that affects millions of women worldwide. With our deep-rooted expertise in women’s health, we are committed to improving the awareness on endometriosis. We are delighted to partner with PAIR and provide support to initiatives that will contribute to help women access better healthcare solutions. Information and communication among patients, and patient’s groups is essential to fast-track the endometriosis diagnosis. At Bayer, our goal is to improve the health outcomes of women through research and development and by introducing new treatment options for diseases including Endometriosis.” says Mr. Deepak Chopra, Business Unit Head, Women’s Health, Bayer Zydus Pharma.
The EndoRun started from Connaught Place in Delhi and was graced by Chief Guest Ms. Suman, an Oscar winner and national president of the Embark Care Foundation along with Dr. Madhu Goel, Associate Director – Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Fortis La femme. Distinguished doctors and other patient support groups rendered support by offering expert guidance on endometriosis.
A coffee table book which is a collection of patient stories that features their journey and diagnosis story was also launched. It is aimed at empowering patients to take the right steps to connect with gynaecologists. The book will equip women to understand the condition through the perspectives of these women. The event also featured interactive sessions like Zumba, which aim to promote a healthy lifestyle among women.
“Through these pan India events, we hope that our efforts during Endometriosis Awareness Month will help break down the stigma surrounding endometriosis and promote greater understanding of the condition. We are committed to empowering those affected by endometriosis through education, advocacy, and support”, added Dr. Devi.
The other phases of the initiative are scheduled to take place on 25th March in Mumbai, 26th March in Pune, 28th March in Hyderabad and will conclude in Kolkata on 2nd April.
