Bayer organises two-day endometriosis awareness campaign

The two-day campaign coincided with the ongoing World Endometriosis Awareness Month and Bayer's launch of its unique treatment to reduce the painful symptoms of the disease.

Organised at the Dubai Festival City, this initiative aimed at educating the general public on this debilitating disease that is affecting 'one in every 10 women' in the UAE. Medical specialists in this area estimate that the number of UAE Nationals and residents, who suffer from symptoms of this disease, has reached 100,000 mark by now across the country.

According to Dr. Ghassan Lotfi, Consultant in Gynaecological and Laparoscopic Surgery, Latifa Maternity & Paediatric Hospital, "Clinical studies conducted by Bayer have shown that the new treatment is highly effective at relieving endometriosis-associated pain. Its efficacy and safety have been tested in a clinical trial programme involving women with endometriosis for up to 15 months."

Dr. Lotfi explained, "Endometriosis develops when cells resembling those from the lining of the uterus grow outside uterine cavity, forming endometriotic implants which can cause inflammation and formation of scar tissue, leading to increased pain associated with the menstrual period."

He said, the research has proved that the drug taken once daily is the best treatment of disease.

"We are committed to improving the health and well-being of women and their families in general, through researching and developing new treatment options for diseases afflicting women," said Dr. Bassem Abdullah, Country Division Head - Gulf and Spokesperson of Bayer HealthCare Middle East, adding, "Doctors and patients concerned with the disease feel that the introduction of the new endometriosis treatment therapy from Bayer to global and local markets marks a considerable step forward in treating this chronic, debilitating disease."

During the campaign, a case questionnaire will be distributed to women in the mall to find out if they have any endometriosis symptoms. If a woman answers three questions with a positive risk factor, she will be provided with a mobile phone number for a free consultation with endometriosis expert doctors and nurses at Latifa Maternity & Paediatric Hospital.

It is noteworthy to mention that Dr. Ghassan Lotfi has conducted two lectures for female students earlier this month. The first was held at the American University in Dubai on March 12, and the second took place at the Dubai Medical College for Girls on March 19.

In order to help women folk and raise awareness on the disease, arrangements have been made to set up one booth at Latifa Maternity & Paediatric Hospital on March 27, while another booth will be set up at Dubai Hospital on March 28, 2013.