SEF
Scientific Endometriosis Foundation
Scientific Endometriosis Foundation
Purpose of the foundation
The Foundation’s mission is to raise awareness and knowledge
about the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis;
in particular by supporting research,
training of the medical profession and through public relations work.
The foundation aims to improve knowledge about endometriosis in German speaking countries.
Endometriosis is the second most common benign, proliferative disease in women. About 7-15% of the female population during the phase of sexual maturity are affected. It causes discomfort and destroys organs and impairs organ functions. At around 40,000, the number of new cases per year is not quite two thirds as high as for breast cancer! Nevertheless, it receives far less attention. The clinical reality in Germany is discouraging:
- It takes an average of 6 years from the onset of the first symptoms to diagnosis (3 years for infertility patients and up to 10 years for pain patients).
- Misdiagnoses – such as adnexitis, psychogenic complaints, PMS, pelviopathy – are made more frequently than the correct diagnosis!
The Scientific Endometriosis Foundation is working together with the European Endometriosis League and the Endometriosis Association Germany e.V. to change this situation for the benefit of affected women.
