Press Releases
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Endo Hits Primetime Two professional dancers of the ABC hit "Dancing with the Stars" diagnosed with endometriosis Los Gatos, CA, December 1, 2008 – What are the odds that two out of twelve very young and fit female dancers from the popular TV program Dancing with the Stars would be diagnosed with endometriosis? Higher than most would think. Statistically, about 1 out of 6 women suffer from endometriosis. Julianne Hough temporarily removed herself from the lineup on the show due to her recent diagnosis and surgery. Lacey Schwimmer, also a young professional dancer, revealed she is suffering from endometriosis as well. For the millions of women afflicted with endometriosis, the news of Julianne's and Lacey's diagnosis, especially at their young age, will shed new light on this disease and hopefully help those suffering find relief. Just like Julianne and Lacey, women with endometriosis look healthy, but inside are tortured by pain. Endometriosis, commonly associated with "killer cramps," is a progressive and debilitating disease that can affect women and teenage girls as young as 12 years old. An estimated 5.5 million American women and 89 million worldwide suffer from endometriosis, which is a leading cause of female infertility and gynecologic surgery. Endometriosis is too often misunderstood and ineffectively treated, despite being one of the most prevalent causes of pelvic pain in women and teens around the globe. The recent publicity surrounding Julianne and Lacey provides the opportunity for both dancers to be "stars" in the advancement of endometriosis awareness, as well as on the dance floor. Early detection is critical in minimizing the devastating physical and emotional effects that can occur if endometriosis is not diagnosed and treated properly in its early stages. "While women with endometriosis can look healthy, treatment of endometriosis and pelvic pain can be complex, requiring a multi-disciplinary approach. There is hope and there are effective treatments for this disease," says Andrew Cook, MD, FACOG. The founder of Vital Health Institute and a pioneer in successful treatment of endometriosis, Dr. Cook understands the pain associated with the disease. He believes that the two elements most critical to successful treatment are early, accurate diagnosis, and the surgical skills of the physician. He also believes that successful treatment of endometriosis is much more than its surgical removal alone: A comprehensive approach to treatment should include a multi-disciplinary restoration of the patient's health. About Vital Health Institute Press release written by Valerie Foster. For more information or to arrange an interview with Dr. Cook, contact Sarah Sherwood at sarah@sherwoodcommunications.com or 650-380-9102. |
