Urgent call to Endometriosis patients: Get tested for diabetes.

Women suffering from the crippling condition endometriosis should schedule a visit to their local surgery – and make sure they haven’t got diabetes too.

New research has shown that just under half of those living with the pelvic blight are more likely to contract the type two version of the condition. 

All of which has prompted local charity Endometriosis Awareness North to encourage underweight and pre-menopausal endo sufferers in particular to get a blood test and make sure their insulin levels are normal. 

Founder Dr Anita Sharma said: “We have had sometimes spurious links between endometriosis and issues such as infertility and ovarian cancer properly explained but until now, nobody has investigated the link with diabetes. This study is alarming. As if the searing pain of endo wasn’t bad enough, untreated diabetes can result in life-threatening crises.” 

For women from South Asian communities in Oldham, the warning is even more severe. Genetics means that diabetes is more prevalent in these communities, and there is a reluctance to seek medical help. 

“I have even had women say they would feel a sense of shame should they contract diabetes” continued Dr Sharma, “they believe they are to blame, and whilst lifestyle can play a part, it is not the only cause.” 

 Endometriosis Awareness North is calling for more research into not only the condition, but all women’s health problems. 

“I wonder how many lives have been affected by us not knowing of the link between endometriosis and diabetes” concluded Dr Sharma. “Not enough money is being ploughed into examining connections like this, and the mindset is typical of a misogynist attitude that makes women’s health second-best, always. 

"Armed with this research we must now call for more studies and urgently remind our sisters with endo to get tested for diabetes – Now.” 

To learn more about Endometriosis Awareness North and donate to their work helping 
those with the condition, please visit https://endometriosisawarenessnorth.com/