Priority Populations in Endometriosis: Global and Cultural Perspectives
Endometriosis affects an estimated 1 in 7 women and those presumed female at birth, yet diagnosis and treatment options vary across cultures and regions. While medical research has advanced, many communities continue to face barriers rooted in stigma, cultural norms, and limited healthcare access. Understanding priority populations—those underserved or at higher risk—is essential to building inclusive solutions.
At the 2025 World Endometriosis Congress in Sydney, Endometriosis Australia ambassador Julie Snook spoke with leading voices—including Dr. Siew Lim (Monash University), Elsie Wandera (Endometriosis Foundation of Kenya), Dr. Paul Young (University of British Columbia), and Jessica Sutherland (patient research advisor)—to explore how cultural diversity and priority populations must be at the heart of global endometriosis care.
Dr. Paul Young and patient advisor Jessica Sutherland presented a photo‑voice study that explored the experiences of East, South, and Southeast Asian women living with endometriosis during the COVID‑19 pandemic.
What Are Priority Populations in Endometriosis?
The term priority population refers to groups who are:
- Underserved in healthcare systems
- At higher risk of delayed diagnosis or poor outcomes
- Marginalised due to cultural, economic, or geographic factors
Recognising these populations ensures that awareness campaigns, research, and treatment strategies are equitable and culturally sensitive.
As part of our commitment to priority populations, Endometriosis Australia has created a Priority Populations Working Group, headed by chair Ruhee Meghani, to help us create culturally appropriate and inclusive awareness and education materials for everyone who needs them.
This work forms part of the Priority Populations grant awarded by the Department of Health and Aged Care to Endometriosis Australia in April 2024. The purpose of which is to support the development of endometriosis-specific media, awareness and information materials that are tailored to priority populations for enhanced accessibility and understanding of endometriosis.
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