EUROPEAN NETWORK ON ENDOMETRIOSIS 

 

        
The ENE is funded via the EU Public Health Programme (2003-2008)
   
INTRODUCTION PARTNERS COMMUNITY GATEWAY MILESTONES CONTACT  
 
                                Rationale and Relative Merits of the Project General Objectives Specific Objectives                      PARTNER AREA
 
 
 
Introduction
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus is also found elsewhere in the body, mainly in the abdominal cavity. The tissue responds to a woman’s hormonal cycle. This abnormal tissue can give rise to nodules, cysts in the ovaries and adhesions, resulting in inflammation, pain and infertility. The consequences of these effects have a major impact on quality of life.

Endometriosis is a condition affecting an estimated 16 million women in EU Member States and was recognised through its specific inclusion in the 2006 EU Public Health Work Plan.

The average time to diagnosis is 8 years and it is a condition that can destroy careers, contribute to infertility and have an untold impact on quality of life.

A survey in 2005 showed that the estimated cost to EU Member States from lost work-days due to endometriosis was over €30 billion per year. 82% of women with endometriosis, who completed the survey, reported that, in the last five years, they had to take time off work due to the condition

Despite being so common, there is much that needs to be done if we are to understand the true impact of endometriosis.
This EUROPEAN NETWORK ON ENDOMETRIOSIS project is the first time the EU has funded an endometriosis project from its Public Health programme, giving greater acceptance of the condition.