Hyderabad-based EFI seeks more endometriosis experts in India

HYDERABAD: The Endometriosis Foundation of India, based in Hyderabad, is submitting a proposal to the state and central governments, as well as medical institutes, to address the urgent need for more endometriosis medical professionals in the country.

The organisation was founded with the aim of raising awareness and offering assistance. Endometriosis affects one out of every ten women, with approximately 42 million women in India now suffering.

According to WHO guidelines, the doctor-patient ratio should be at 1: 1000. The doctor-to-population ratio in the country is 1:834, with registered allopathic doctors and 5.65 lakh AYUSH doctors. In contrast, just a few doctors in India do endometriosis excision procedures surgeries.

Dr. Vimee Bindra Founder Endometrioses Foundation of India said, “Endometriosis is a significant yet underdiagnosed and underfunded medical condition affecting millions of women. It is a chronic condition affecting approximately 10 percent of women of reproductive age worldwide, which translates to millions of women in India alone. Despite its prevalence, endometriosis remains underdiagnosed, often misunderstood, and inadequately addressed within the Indian healthcare system. The purpose of this representation through a proposal is to outline a comprehensive plan for creating awareness about endometriosis and improving the diagnosis, treatment, and support for women affected by the condition in India over the next five years and emphasizing the need to create more facilities for Endometriosis specialization in medical institutes and to have many more endometriosis specialists to treat the staggering patients".

She adds, "Our proposal among others includes a comprehensive National Endometriosis Awareness and Action Plan aimed at enhancing public awareness, improving early detection and diagnosis, and providing better support and treatment options for those affected. The five-year plan comprises public awareness campaigns, educational initiatives, capacity-building measures, research and development, and partnerships with stakeholders".

The current state of endometriosis care in India is insufficient to address the magnitude of the issue. Therefore, the proposed plan's successful implementation would improve the quality of life for countless women and contribute to the overall progress of India's healthcare system.

Endometriosis is estimated to affect 1 in 10 individuals of reproductive age, making it as common as diabetes. However, due to under diagnosis and misdiagnosis, it can often take an average of 7 to 10 years for an individual to receive a correct diagnosis.