A US study has revealed that women with a history of endometriosis have a 31% higher risk of premature death than those without the condition. The analysis, which covers data from more than 110,000 women since 1993, shows that women with endometriosis have a premature death rate of 2 per 1,000 person-years, compared with 1.4 per 1,000 person-years in women without the condition. The results of the study have been published in the journal ‘The BMJ‘.
The research also explored the relationship between uterine fibroids and the risk of premature death, finding that although these benign tumors do not increase the overall risk of mortality, they were associated with an increased risk of death due to gynecological tumors.
For Francisco Carmonaa gynecologist specialized in endometriosis, benign gynecological pathology and laparoscopic gynecological surgery, commented on the strength of the study: «This work is well founded, based on data from the cohort of the Nurses’ Health Study IIa study recognized for its rigor. “The results are based on almost three decades of monitoring and validated methods for data collection, which gives them great validity.”
However, Carmona also points out Science Media Center that, as in all studies, there are limitations. “Some aspects, such as the classification of exposures or the evolution of diagnostic criteria, can influence the results,” he says.
The study adds an important finding by highlighting the relationship between endometriosis, uterine fibroids and premature mortality. “The study expands the understanding of how these conditions are not only associated with chronic diseases, but also with mortality risk. It highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to women’s gynecological health,” Carmona explained.
A relevant finding is the protective effect that seems to be associated with hysterectomy in women with uterine fibroids. “This finding opens the door to future research into whether less invasive procedures, such as myomectomy, could have similar benefits in terms of mortality and quality of life,” said Carmona.
The study has direct implications for clinical practice and public health policy. “The findings underline the importance of multidisciplinary management for women with endometriosis and uterine fibroids,” Carmona highlights. “It is essential that these conditions are considered in cancer prevention strategies and health policies to reduce premature death rates.”
The research also opens the door to new questions. “It is necessary to further study how diagnostic advances and more conservative surgical techniques impact long-term mortality,” concludes Carmona.
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