Endometriosis linked to 46% higher type 2 diabetes risk

A large-scale study published in the journal Diabetologia has found that women diagnosed with endometriosis face a 46% higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to those without the condition.

The ARCHES study analyzed data from approximately three million women using the Utah Population Database over a 25-year period. Researchers from George Mason University and other institutions noted that the association varies significantly depending on the type and location of the endometriosis. For instance, superficial peritoneal endometriosis was linked to a 67% increased risk, while ovarian endometriosis showed a 61% higher risk. Notably, endometriosis located in extrapelvic sites showed the strongest association.

While the study identifies a significant correlation, researchers emphasized that it does not prove a direct cause-and-effect relationship. The findings suggest that chronic inflammation may play a role in linking the two conditions. The study also observed increased risks in women even without obesity, highlighting the need for early metabolic screening and further research into the biological mechanisms involved.