Pune: EndoRun Raises Awareness About Endometriosis

Viman Nagar, 27th March 2023: Phoenix City Lane 1 witnessed a walk that aimed to raise awareness about endometriosis, a medical condition that affects women’s reproductive health. Led by Khushboo Sharma, Project Lead of Women’s Health at PAIR Academy, the walk witnessed 65 participants who were enthusiastic and energized.

Endometriosis is a common, chronic, gynaecological condition, which affects over 247 million women globally and 42 million women in India1. It is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus2. Women with endometriosis suffer from chronic pelvic pain, fatigue, depression, and infertility. Diagnosis of the condition is often delayed by 6-10 years, significantly reducing a woman’s overall quality of life.

The event was organized by the initiative EndoRun, Women with Wings and Purpose, with an aim to emphasize the importance of awareness about the problem and show solidarity towards the pain that women go through while dealing with this condition.

Amol Lunkad, a renowned gynaecologist, laparoscopic surgeon, and infertility specialist, spoke about endometriosis and its effects on women’s health. Sonali Kahde, the reigning Mrs India Empress of the Nation 2021, graced the event with her presence. The organizers launched “Endo Stories,” where Khushboo Sharma, Shilpa Rao, and Amol Lunkad shared their experiences and knowledge about endometriosis.

Sathya Natrajan from Adar Poonawalla- Clean City Initiative, Captain Puneri Nayak, Indian Swachhata Leagues, Volunteer of Red Dot Campaign & Lead for Adar Poonwalla Clean city, joined forces to support the cause. The green flag for the run was given by Shilpa Rao, Vinita, Amol Lunkad, Surendra Bapusaheb Pathare, and the PAIR Team.

The event was supported by the Swach Partner Adar Poonawala Clean City Initiative, which is known for its efforts to keep cities clean and hygienic. Chitransh Saxena, Project Coordinator Dakshama Health, also extended his support to the cause.

The walk was a step towards creating awareness about endometriosis, and the participants showed their solidarity by coming together to support women who suffer from this condition. It was heartening to see so many people coming together to support a cause that is often overlooked.

Dr. Shilpa Rao, an endo warrior and an advocate for this condition, expressed her pride in being associated with organizing this run with her colleague, Dr. Vinita and PAIR Academy. She stated that the run was aimed to increase awareness about endometriosis, which affects 1 in 10 women worldwide. She believed that this walk would surely help millions of people with endometriosis get the attention they deserve.

Dr. Ratna Devi, Director Patient Academy for Innovation and Research, said, “Raising awareness is crucial to address the issue of delayed diagnosis and treatment for women experiencing severe symptoms and excruciating pain. Unfortunately, their voices often go unheard or are dismissed as women’s health takes a backseat in many households. It is imperative to advocate for improved early detection and treatment options. Creating a safe and supportive environment where women can openly discuss their experiences and provide mutual support is an urgent necessity.”