A Lanarkshire MP is calling for guidelines on the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis to be updated as a matter of urgency.
East Kilbride, Strathaven and Lesmahagow MP, Dr Lisa Cameron, has voiced concerns and is urging the UK Government to ensure NICE updates its guidelines on endometriosis.
This echoes calls from the charity Endometriosis UK saying that the guideline has significant gaps.
Within the local community endometriosis affects one in 10 women and those assigned female at birth from puberty to menopause, although the impact may be felt for life.
Yet diagnosis takes eight years on average, a figure that’s not changed in a decade.
For some, symptoms make it difficult to succeed in education or stay in employment, and the disease costs the UK economy an estimated £8.2bn per year in treatment, healthcare and loss of work.
Following the recent Endometriosis Action Month, Dr Lisa Cameron MP has supported an early day motion asking for an update of current guidelines on endometriosis: diagnosis and management, to begin this year.
Dr Cameron believes a full review of current guidelines is required, with gaps being identified.
She told us : "Endometriosis affects so many yet is rarely spoken of - I was so pleased to be able to help this important campaign.
“Those with endometriosis often feel ignored or isolated. Whilst current NHS guidelines are in place they have notable gaps, meaning a lack of support and lack of pathways for care for those affected by the condition.
"An update to current guidelines could be transformative to many lives now and in the future.”
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