Pharmacists Play Key Role in Reducing Delays in Endometriosis Diagnosis
As many as one in ten women of reproductive age suffer from endometriosis, a chronic condition often marked by significant diagnostic delays. Healthcare professionals are increasingly recognizing the vital role pharmacists can play in identifying potential cases and improving patient care pathways. This comes as awareness campaigns and initiatives gain momentum across France and beyond.
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it, causing pain, inflammation, and potentially infertility. Despite the existence of specialized care pathways, the average time to diagnosis remains around ten years, according to research led by Zélia Breton at the INSERM in 2025. This lengthy delay can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life and treatment options.
Lore-Anne Viénot-Trillou, a pharmacist in Lyon, France, has been at the forefront of efforts to address this issue. She founded EndoAct France, a national network of pharmacies with staff trained to recognize endometriosis symptoms and guide patients toward appropriate care. Her perform was recognized in November 2025 with the Prix de l’Ordre. “The act of guiding patients with endometriosis at the counter and the pharmacist’s role in contributing to the improvement of the care pathway is what is being recognized,” Viénot-Trillou explained.
Viénot-Trillou emphasizes the importance of pharmacist training. “The first step is definitely training,” she stated in an interview with PharmagoraPlus. Pharmacists are often the first point of contact for women experiencing symptoms, and their ability to recognize potential signs of endometriosis can significantly reduce the time to diagnosis.
Recent initiatives to raise awareness and improve care include European Endometriosis Awareness Week, held from March 2 to March 8, 2026. During this week, healthcare professionals, patient organizations, and health authorities mobilized to prevent and inform the public about the condition.
Efforts to improve diagnosis are also exploring new tools. A new test, capable of providing results in just five minutes, is being evaluated for its potential to aid in earlier detection, as reported by Sud Ouest.
Community events are also playing a role in raising awareness. On March 20, 2026, a march was held in Calais, France, to raise awareness about endometriosis, according to Nord Littoral. Similarly, an information and awareness event took place in Nouvion-en-Thiérache, France, as reported by L’Union.
Viénot-Trillou believes that active listening at the pharmacy counter is a crucial skill for identifying potential cases. “Active listening at the counter is a major tool for identifying endometriosis,” she said in an interview with Le Moniteur des pharmacies.
These combined efforts highlight a growing recognition of the need for a more proactive and collaborative approach to endometriosis care, with pharmacists playing an increasingly important role in reducing diagnostic delays and improving outcomes for women living with this chronic condition.
