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Almost 3,000 Suffolk women diagnosed with endometriosis amid long waiting times

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

New figures reveal 2,875 women in Suffolk have been diagnosed with endometriosis over the past decade, but experts warn many more could be suffering in silence due to lengthy diagnosis delays.

Why it matters: Endometriosis affects one in 10 women of reproductive age, causing severe pain, extreme tiredness and potential infertility. However, many women wait years for a diagnosis and proper treatment.

The big picture: Office for National Statistics data shows:

  • 2,875 women in Suffolk (0.4% of total women in the county) received an endometriosis diagnosis between March 2011 and December 2021

  • This represents 845 diagnoses per 100,000 women in the county – below the East of England average of 989 diagnoses per 100,000 women

  • The average age for diagnosis is 35 years

A woman holding her stomach in pain
Endometriosis affects one in 10 women of reproductive age,Suriyawut SuriyaGetty Images

What they're saying: Emma Cox, chief executive of Endometriosis UK, welcomed expanding research into the condition but highlighted ongoing challenges.

"The relative lack of both data and research into endometriosis has historically made it easy to overlook or fail to grasp the seriousness of the disease," she said.

"Without strong evidence, decision-makers in healthcare and other sectors have either not recognised the scale of the issue, or not been able to argue for investments to support those with endometriosis."

Between the lines: The NHS estimates only 2% of women of reproductive age in England have been diagnosed with endometriosis. However, charities suggest the true figure is closer to 10%, indicating many Suffolk women may be living with undiagnosed endometriosis.

What's being done: An NHS England spokesperson said: "The NHS is committed to helping women affected by endometriosis and, while there have been some improvements, we know there is a lot more to do."

The NHS is:

  • Improving information about menstrual pain

  • Supporting local areas to develop Women's Health Hubs

  • Working to speed up diagnosis and treatment

Worth noting: Women in more deprived areas showed higher diagnosis rates than those in wealthier areas, which the ONS suggests may reflect private healthcare use in more affluent regions.

The bottom line: While thousands of Suffolk women have received an endometriosis diagnosis, experts believe many more are waiting for help. The NHS acknowledges more work is needed to improve diagnosis times and treatment access.

Sources

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Theatre project transforms lives through art

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Participants have praised the life-changing impact of a creative wellbeing programme at Ipswich's New Wolsey Theatre, designed to support people with multiple health conditions.

Why it matters: With long-term health conditions predicted to affect 68% of people by 2035, innovative approaches to supporting wellbeing and reducing health inequalities are becoming increasingly vital.

Tell Your Story exhibition at New Wolsey Theatre
Tell Your Story exhibition at New Wolsey TheatrePolly AldertonNew Wolsey Theatre

The big picture: Tell Your Story, produced by New Wolsey Theatre's Creative Communities team and funded by NHS Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board, brings together people with multiple health conditions in a supportive environment to develop skills in photography, animation and creative writing.

What they're saying: "This programme has been confidence building. It's a really lovely way of bringing people together in a safe space. The gentle introductions, and support and help of the team, makes you feel accepted and part of a little family," one participant said.

By the numbers:

  • 12 workshops led by photographer Gillian Allard and writer Dean Parkin

  • 30% of people currently live with a long-term condition

  • 70% of all health and care spending goes to long-term conditions

What's happening: A free exhibition showcasing participants' work is running in the theatre's lounge area until Monday, 17 February.

The bottom line: Tell Your Story demonstrates how creative expression can improve wellbeing, resilience and sense of agency for people living with long-term health conditions.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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