NHS approves new non-invasive tests for endometriosis diagnosis
The NHS has approved two new non-invasive tests for endometriosis, including a saliva-based test, which are expected to speed up diagnosis and reduce the time to diagnosis for patients.
The Full Story
A plain summary built from the channels that reported this story.
The NHS has approved two new non-invasive tests for endometriosis, a move that experts say could dramatically cut the time it takes for women to get a diagnosis. The tests, one using a saliva sample and the other measuring electrical signals in the gut, have been described as a game-changer by clinicians and patients alike.
Endometriosis affects around one in ten women, but diagnosis currently takes an average of nine years. The condition occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows elsewhere in the body, causing severe pain, heavy periods, bloating, and bowel problems. Until now, the only definitive way to diagnose it was through a laparoscopy, an invasive procedure where a camera is inserted through small cuts in the abdomen.
The newly approved tests are EndoTest, which looks for biological markers in saliva, and EndoSure, which uses sensor pads on the abdomen to measure electrical signals in the gut. Both are non-invasive and can be done in a clinic. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has approved them for use on the NHS in England and Wales.
Patients who have lived with the condition for years have welcomed the news. Monica, who suffered debilitating symptoms for 17 years before being diagnosed, said the tests could have been a game-changer for her. Simran, a younger patient who waited more than two years for answers, described her pain as feeling like being punched, stabbed, and squeezed all at once. Her mother Sharon said the diagnosis meant no one could gaslight her daughter about her symptoms anymore.
Consultants involved in the rollout say the tests will transform care by improving both accuracy and speed. The hope is that earlier diagnosis will allow women to get treatment and support sooner, reducing the long-term impact of the disease.
On screen
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Key Claims
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Channel Perspectives
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This channel gave a very brief mention of the story, focusing on the saliva test and calling it a 'game changer' for being quicker and less invasive. It did not include patient stories or details of the second test, and the coverage was cut short by a transition to sports news.
- “It involves a saliva sample and has been described as a game changer because it's much quicker and less invasive than existing methods.”
ITV provided a detailed report with a patient story (Monica, 17-year wait) and expert commentary. It highlighted the two tests (saliva and electrical signals) and emphasised the reduction in diagnosis time. The tone was empathetic and focused on the relief for patients, with a clear call that the tests are 'game-changing'.
- “Experts say they will be game-changing in the way they cut the time it takes for women to be told whether they have the condition.”
- “It took 17 years before she was finally diagnosed with endometriosis.”
- “Knowing that women have got a better chance in our future, I think that's absolutely incredible.”
This channel gave a comprehensive report with a patient story (Simran and her mother) and detailed explanation of the two tests (EndoTest and EndoSure). It included a consultant calling it a 'game-changer' and emphasised the speed and accuracy benefits. The tone was informative and supportive, with a focus on the personal impact.
- “I really think it's a game-changer, and that's a phrase that's used often, and maybe overused, but in this scenario, I think it absolutely is.”
- “The only way I could describe it is if you're being punched and stabbed and squeezed all at the same time, everywhere, and most likely in the lower parts of my stomach.”
- “These non-invasive tests that are going to be now available on the NHS are going to make a big difference to many young women, like Simran and older women as well, who have perhaps not been heard for years.”
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