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Endometriosis

Lady Parts 5

Endometriosis is costing women, and Australia, an estimated total of $9.7 billion per year, in medical bills and lost productivity, according to new research.⁣ ⁣

This is the average cost for every sufferer at $30,000 per year, both personally and to society.⁣ ⁣

Around 20-40% of the cost is directly within the health sector:⁣

  • Medications⁣
  • Doctors visits⁣
  • Assisted reproductive technology (eg IVF)⁣
  • Transport costs to get to appointments⁣ ⁣

Over 60-80% is due to a loss in productivity, either because of absenteeism or presenteeism (not being as productive as usual due to the sheer level of pain and discomfort).⁣ ⁣

Reducing the pain caused by endometriosis by 20% could essentially save Australia billions. ⁣ ⁣

This condition affects more than 830,000 (more than 10%) of Australia’s women.⁣ ⁣

The symptoms are variable with the conditions easily getting overlooked or misdiagnosed for 7-12 years, with 1 out of 5 doctors missing the diagnosis. ⁣ ⁣

At least 50% of patients suffer from fertility issues. ⁣ ⁣

You would expect more research, education, awareness, investment and progress would be made in this field.⁣ ⁣

Yet how many men are oblivious to what endometriosis is?⁣ ⁣

This is not necessarily the men’s fault. ⁣ ⁣

It is simply because the system is not putting this level of information out there.⁣ ⁣

You are not treated with care, respect or urgency. ⁣ ⁣

This is not acceptable.