Economic Impact of Endometriosis in New Zealand Revealed – Endometriosis New Zealand

Endometriosis New Zealand shared a post on LinkedIn about a paper by Jordan Tewhaiti-Smith et al. published in Woman:

“A major new study has been published, providing the first New Zealand-specific picture of the economic impact of endometriosis, and the findings are stark. The cost to those living with the condition stretches into the millions of dollars while the national burden sits in the billions, largely driven by reduced workforce participation and productivity loss.

This work is based on research our community contributed to in 2021 and is distinct from the impact study Endometriosis NZ currently has underway with the University of Canterbury.

Endometriosis has a huge effect on people’s lives; with the ability to work, be productive and financially secure a major challenge for many.

Lilly’s experience is just one example of the reality behind this research. Her condition has impacted on her ability to work with extreme bouts of pain meaning employment options are limited This has resulted in significant financial insecurity, with her symptoms also having major impacts on her personal life.

‘This illness is deeply isolating. The constant pain, unpredictability, and limitations have taken a significant toll on my ability to hold down a job, complete basic daily errands and maintain relationships. All this is having a major impact on my mental health.’

Piper is another young New Zealander whose life has been derailed. Having had symptoms first dismissed at 14, she endured four years of severe pain before finally receiving a diagnosis of stage 4 endometriosis, after accessing private specialist care. Today, she faces ongoing employment barriers, financial strain, and the challenge of parenting through debilitating pain.

‘We deserve more than being told to ‘cope’ with birth control and pain meds,’ Piper says. ‘Without private insurance, I might still be waiting for a diagnosis.’

This study, which is linked below, strengthens what our community has long known – addressing endometriosis needs to be a national imperative.

‘The study’s findings confirm that endometriosis is far from a niche women’s health concern,’ says Endometriosis New Zealand Chief Executive Tanya Cooke. ‘It is a major health issue that deserves to be treated with the same urgency and coordination as other significant conditions.’

That is why Endometriosis New Zealand is calling for a National Endometriosis Action Plan to:

• Drive earlier diagnosis
• Ensure fair and timely access to treatment
• Address inequities in care
• Enable people to stay in education and participate in workDeliver more New Zealand-specific research

A coordinated national approach through a National Endometriosis Action Plan is essential if we are to meaningfully reduce the burden of endometriosis on our communitie.”

Title: The Cost of Endometriosis and Chronic Pelvic Pain Burden in New Zealand (Aotearoa): Results from a Nationwide Survey

Authors: Jordan Tewhaiti-Smith, Mark Gannott, Alex Semprini, Deborah Bush, Augustus Anderson, Allie Eathorne, Neil Johnson, Jane E. Girling, Michael East, Joy Marriott, Ruth Fisher, Mike Armour

Read the full article.

Stay updated on all scientific advances in the field of fertility with Fertility News.