An awareness campaign to contain endometriosis and reduce its complications

The Executive Director of King Fahd University Hospital in Al-Khobar, affiliated with Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University, Dr. Abdullah Yousef, inaugurated a comprehensive awareness campaign under the slogan "Beyond Endometriosis." This pioneering initiative aims to raise awareness about endometriosis, a prominent health challenge facing women. The opening ceremony was attended by the Director of Medical Services at the hospital, Dr. Majed Al-Abdali, and the Head of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Dr. Noura Al-Qahtani, with active participation from the Saudi Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the university's Medical Club.

History and challenges of diagnosing endometriosis globally and locally

For decades, endometriosis has been a medical enigma and a major challenge in women's healthcare. Historically, many women suffered in silence due to a lack of public awareness and misdiagnosis, as severe menstrual cramps were mistakenly believed to be normal and not requiring medical intervention. This delay in diagnosis, which can extend for years, has exacerbated the condition and negatively impacted reproductive health. Today, this medical event in Al-Khobar sheds light on this chronic disease, which involves the growth of cells similar to the uterine lining outside its normal cavity, settling in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or pelvic area, and in rare cases, spreading to other organs in the body.

Hidden symptoms and the impact of the disease on quality of life

Dr. Noura Al-Qahtani explained that this disease primarily affects women during their reproductive years, emphasizing its direct and profound impact on quality of life and chances of conception, even in cases where obvious symptoms may be absent. She indicated that symptoms vary considerably, ranging from complete absence to excruciating pain that hinders daily activities. It is a striking medical fact that approximately 10% of cases of delayed pregnancy are directly attributable to this condition.

Although complete prevention of the disease is currently impossible due to the lack of precise knowledge of its causes, early diagnosis remains crucial in reducing serious complications such as adhesions and cyst formation, especially in the twenties to forties age group. Multiple treatment options are now available to alleviate symptoms, making it essential to consult a doctor immediately upon noticing any unusual changes to ensure early intervention.

The strategic dimensions of the campaign and its regional and international impact

This awareness campaign is of paramount importance, extending beyond the local level to encompass regional and international objectives. Locally, the initiative aligns with the goals of the Kingdom's health sector, which prioritizes women's health and improved quality of life. Regionally, the campaign helps break the silence surrounding reproductive health issues, encouraging women to seek medical care without hesitation. Internationally, these efforts are consistent with the directives of global health organizations, which classify this condition as a public health issue affecting a significant percentage of women worldwide, thus requiring ongoing medical and psychological support.

Pillars of awareness and correction of common medical misconceptions

Dr. Camelia Al-Obaid is a consultant obstetrician and gynecologist at King Fahd University Hospital in Al-Khobar

For her part, Dr. Camelia Al-Obaid, a consultant in obstetrics and gynecology, confirmed that the campaign targets women aged 18 to 45, with a strong focus on the most vulnerable group between 25 and 35. She explained that the global prevalence is estimated at about 10% among women, noting that the similarity of symptoms to other gynecological conditions makes diagnosis a medical challenge that requires a high level of public awareness.

To simplify the delivery of information, the event was divided into five integrated awareness corners: an introductory corner explaining the nature of the disease, a corner dedicated to symptoms, a corner highlighting methods of diagnosis, a corner explaining treatment options, and finally, a “Consult Your Doctor” corner that allows visitors to ask their questions to specialist doctors.

Renad Al Rabah, leader of the student club for Obstetrics and Gynecology at Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University

In a related context, the student club leader, Renad Al Rabah, cautioned against misconceptions, emphasizing the important principle that "not all pain during menstruation is normal," as it may indicate a problem requiring investigation. The event concluded by affirming that the campaign targets all segments of society, including men, to strengthen family support for women experiencing menstrual cramps and to highlight the importance of student initiatives in promoting health awareness and improving quality of life.