Recently, a Network for the Prevention and Treatment of Endometriosis has been established in Lombardy, addressing a condition that affects between 10 and 15% of women of reproductive age. With over 3 million confirmed diagnoses in the country, endometriosis primarily manifests between the ages of 25 and 35, although it can also occur in younger age groups. The condition is often characterized by a lengthy diagnostic journey, which can last up to seven years, leading to significant psychological repercussions for patients. Intense and persistent menstrual pain is one of the most common symptoms, alongside difficulties in conception.
The causes of endometriosis are still under investigation, but it is hypothesized that fragments of endometrial tissue may migrate from the uterus to other parts of the body during menstruation. Women with a family history of the disease have a significantly higher risk of developing it. General practitioners and gynecologists play a crucial role in the early diagnosis and treatment of the condition, while diagnostic tools such as ultrasound are particularly useful for identifying ovarian and deep forms of endometriosis.
