Monday, March 8, 2021, which marked the International Women’s Day celebration came with a difference in Nigeria as the Endometriosis Support Group Nigeria, a group that was created basically to promote the awareness of endometriosis and support women with the condition.
Dr Abayomi who spoke to
journalists just before the event revealed that Endometriosis is a condition
which is estimated to affect between 10-15% of women within reproductive age
(11-50yrs) worldwide, that’s about 200 million women.
It is believed to be the
cause of infertility in about 30-40% of couples with fertility problems in
Nigeria.
The condition has no
cure, and can potentially cause incapacitating pain, organ damage, infertility,
and other severe and sometimes life-threatening medical consequences if
inadequately managed.
The impact of
Endometriosis on the individual, family, business and the nation is therefore
of grave importance to us.
Titled “Sisters’
Converge: An Endometriosis Conversation” the online programme featured a distinguished panel of discussants, specialists on the subject matter as well
as women living with Endometriosis.
The First Lady of Lagos
State, Dr Mrs Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu who was unavoidably absent but was duly represented
by Mrs Nike Osa. to declare the event open and lend her support towards
fighting the scourge of this dreaded condition.
Prof Isaac Adewole, the
former minister of education and an endo-champion revealed a lot on the
challenges of endometriosis in Nigeria as he delivered a keynote address during
the online programme. He noted that many physicians do not seek endometriosis among women and this most of the times often leads to a wrong
diagnosis.
He further encouraged
medical doctors to be diligent in dealing with women and be patient enough
while holding conversations with them. He further noted that pelvic examination
is critical when it comes to seeking to care for an endometriosis victim.
Prof Adewole advised gynaecologists
who do not have required facilities for diagnoses to refer their patients to
other doctors with required facilities. He also encouraged patients to seek a
second opinion whenever they are in doubts.
Since 2005, the ESGN has
carried out various advocacy initiatives in Nigeria and continues to push for
the enlightenment of this condition; proper training of medical personnel to
properly diagnose this condition and commitment to research that will bring
about a cure for Endometriosis.
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