Oxford study shows link between endometriosis and immune conditions
The study looked at over eight thousand endometriosis cases
A study from the University of Oxford has identified a link between endometriosis and immune conditions.
Research published in the journal Human Reproduction has revealed that women with endometriosis are at a significantly higher risk for developing a range of autoimmune, autoinflammatory, and mixed-pattern diseases.
The study looked at over eight thousand endometriosis cases, and is hoped to help repurpose existing treatments between conditions, as well as targeting early intervention.
Endometriosis is where cells similar to those in the lining of the womb (uterus) grow in other parts of the body. Symptoms include severe period pain and it can cause extreme tiredness. Around 1.5million women are thought to have the condition in the UK.
Professor Krina Zondervan, joint senior author and Head of the Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health at the University of Oxford, said such large studies provided "valuable new insights into disease biology:
"In this case, we have provided solid evidence of a link between endometriosis and subsequent risk of diseases such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, and we have shown this has a biological basis. This new information can now be leveraged to look for new treatment avenues that may work across these conditions.'
Janet Lindsay, CEO of Wellbeing of Women added: 'This research is an important step towards building a more accurate understanding of endometriosis, a condition that affects 1/10 women globally. The findings show a link between endometriosis and autoimmune diseases that could pave the way towards faster diagnosis and more personalised treatments.
'For too long there has been too little investment in research into women’s health issues like endometriosis. It is crucial that we increase research investment in the next generation of women's health researchers to expand our knowledge and improve patient outcomes.'