ESGN Targets Early Diagnosis With Nationwide Endometriosis Essay Competition

In a bid to foster early detection and awareness of endometriosis among Nigerian adolescents, the Endometriosis Support Group Nigeria (ESGN) is expanding its annual Secondary Schools Essay Competition beyond Lagos to include Delta state, Abuja, and other regions.

The initiative, announced by ESGN’s grand patron, Dr. Abayomi Ajayi, aligns with Endometriosis Awareness 2025 and focuses on the theme “The Effects of Endometriosis on Mental Health in Nigeria.”

Running from January 27 to March 28, 2025, the competition seeks to educate young students about the condition and encourage conversations that could lead to earlier diagnoses.

Ajayi underscored the urgency of raising awareness among teenagers, noting that adolescent endometriosis is often misdiagnosed or ignored despite its severe impact on health and quality of life.

“By reaching more schools, we hope to equip young girls with knowledge that could prompt them to seek medical attention early, preventing long-term complications,” he said.

As part of broader efforts to advance research and advocacy, ESGN has partnered with the Nigerian Institute for Medical Research (NIMR) to study painful periods among secondary school girls in Lagos, potentially uncovering links to undiagnosed endometriosis.

With March recognized globally as Endometriosis Awareness Month, ESGN is intensifying its mission to educate, advocate, and support young girls across Nigeria, ensuring that the next generation is better prepared to recognize and manage the condition.