Global risks of endometriosis in women – an appraisal

Abstract

Introduction and aim. Endometriosis is a complex condition in which endometrium, tissue that resembles the uterine lining, develops outside the uterus. It is considered to be a chronic, estrogen-dependent, inflammatory gynecological disorder having multi-factorial origins. This review paper aims to consolidate recent information on ethnic differences, endometriosis risks, and the disease’s etiology in the global context. Material and methods. A systematic search was performed using a variety of international electronic databases, including “PubMed” and “DOAJ”, using the terms endometriosis, endometriosis and infertility, endometriosis and cancer, and treatment of endometriosis. Analysis of the literature. Endometriosis can appear anywhere in the body, including the umbilicus, the cecum and ileum of the digestive tract, the breast, the lungs, and the genitourinary organs. It is typically clinically asymptomatic with no obvious clinical manifestation and expensive treatment, which makes the diagnosis late. There is a complex interplay between socioeconomic status, family history, societal beliefs and laws, personal habits, reproductive and gynaecological conditions, and environmental influences in the development of endometriosis. Conclusion. Women with endometriosis should be given more attention, and specific resources in the healthcare system should be utilized to provide more efficient multidisciplinary healthcare and treatment.