Uterine Fibroids: Assessing Unmet Needs from Bench to Bedside

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Gynecology
• Public Health

Background:

• Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are common benign tumors affecting millions of women, causing significant health issues and reduced quality of life.
• Existing knowledge about fibroid prevalence and disparities is incomplete, hindering effective patient care.
• The Society for Women's Health Research established a Uterine Fibroids Working Group to address these knowledge gaps.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of uterine fibroids.
• To identify research gaps and unmet clinical needs.
• To recommend strategies for improving diagnosis, treatment, and access to care for uterine fibroids.

Main Methods:

• Convened an interdisciplinary Uterine Fibroids Working Group.
• Conducted a 2-day roundtable meeting.
• Discussed current literature, research, clinical practice, and public health data.
• Reached consensus on key themes and recommendations.

Main Results:

• Significant knowledge gaps persist regarding uterine fibroid etiology, pathology, and management.
• Current approaches to diagnosis and treatment require improvement.
• Disparities in fibroid prevalence and outcomes, particularly among women of color, need targeted attention.

Conclusions:

• Systematic studies on fibroid etiology and pathology are essential.
• Recommendations focus on increasing research investment, improving imaging for fibroid assessment, and implementing longitudinal studies.
• Addressing disparities, developing fertility-sparing treatments, and enhancing patient education and personalized care are critical priorities.