Imagine a world without endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic, debilitating disease that affects the health of 1 in 9 women and people with a uterus of reproductive age in Australia.

Endometriosis can cause serious pain and, in some cases, infertility. But diagnosing the disease can be a major challenge, because the severe pelvic pain can overlap with other conditions, and the only way to confirm the diagnosis is through surgery.

The average Australian with endometriosis waits 7 to 10 years for a diagnosis, seriously affecting the quality of life for people living with endometriosis.

Endometriosis sufferer Laura said that on her worst days, she can end up in so much pain she can't walk or stand up straight.

"It doesn't show up on a scan, it doesn't show up on a CT or an X-ray," she said.

"If there's a way to diagnose people without having to cut them open than I think it would enable more people to seek the help that they need."

The direct and indirect costs for the disease in Australia are estimated at between $7 and $9 billion every year, yet doctors currently lack the necessary tools to provide patients with a timely and accurate diagnosis.

Professor Grant Montgomery and Dr Sally Mortlock from IMB are using their expertise in genomics to learn more about the disease, and provide better outcomes for women like Laura.

"In our research so far, we have studied the genomes of 200,000 people, which has produced the most comprehensive data about endometriosis to date," Professor Montgomery said.

The researcher, who has been studying endometriosis for more than 30 years, said now is the time to really tackle the disease.

"Using the combination of big data and advances in computing technology, we have the tools we need and can bring them together in the right way to develop better diagnostics and treatments.

Dr Sally Mortlock said breaking down the complexity of endometriosis will transform knowledge about this silent epidemic and ensure the right therapies are chosen to relieve each person's symptoms.

"The more we understand about endometriosis, the more we can improve the lives of those who live with it, and their families, every day."

Watch women who are leaders in business, health and technology share reflections and advice on conquering challenges. The Woman Effect: Endurance celebrated International Womens Day in partnership with QENDO.