The federal government has announced $30 million to help fight endometriosis and ovarian cancer.
The two debilitating diseases affect hundreds and thousands of Australian women but are often left undiagnosed for too long, with advocates pointing to a lack of awareness and funding as a cause of delays.
There have already been more than 1500 new cases of ovarian cancer diagnosed this year. It's estimated it'll be the 10th most commonly diagnosed cancer for women in 2019.
Endometriosis affects one in 10 women, but until recently has received very little public funding for research.
The funding is part of the National Women's Health Strategy which aims to address gaps in the health system that specifically affect women. The goal is to improve prevention, early detection, treatments and cures for a range of conditions.
Historically ignored
Endometriosis is a condition where the tissue that is similar to the lining of the womb grows outside the womb and in other parts of the body. Symptoms can range from debilitating pain to infertility.
It can take as long as 11 years for a woman to be diagnosed.
Currently, the only way to diagnose the condition is through surgery. Treatment is also invasive - endometriosis has to be cut out using a laser or a diathermy (electric current).
‘Desperate for funding’
Endometriosis Australia director Donna Ciccia says it has only been in the last six years that the condition has received national awareness.
"For example, in 2012, 19 groups applied for just $30,000 of research money through our organisation,” she said.
“We have been desperate for funding.
"It has taken us six years to get national attention, I feel hopeful about the next six years."
Ms Ciccia has had endometriosis since she was 16 but she wasn't diagnosed until she was 31.
The National Action Plan for Endometriosis announced last year aims to reduce the delay in diagnosis and boost public awareness.
Source: Getty Images
Ms Ciccia says the additional funding announced today will contribute to research for long-term solutions.
"It is a marathon not a race,” she said.
Ms Ciccia said that despite the volume of women affected by the condition, its awareness is miniscule compared to other diseases.
"For example, there are 730,000 women who have endometriosis. Less than half a million people suffer dementia.
It's not to say one is worse than the other, but there isn't the same education and empathy about endometriosis in the community.
Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt launched an action plan for endometriosis last year. Source: AAP
No immediate help for sufferers
Endometriosis Association president Jessica Taylor says the funding is unlikely to help current sufferers of endometriosis.
"The majority of funding is going to research and that's not going to support women who are seeking diagnosis and treatment today," she said.
Endometriosis Association (Qld) Inc provides telephone advice and a mentor program for endometriosis sufferers, it is completely volunteer run.
"It would be good to see some funding to help support sufferers now,” Ms Taylor said.
