Factors associated with endometriosis in reproductive-aged patients in Veracruz, Mexico, 2016-2024

Abstract Background Endometriosis is a gynecological condition affecting approximately 10% of women of reproductive age. Its clinical manifestations are key elements in diagnosis; therefore, early identification of factors associated with endometriosis at the primary care level is essential to achieve timely diagnosis and treatment. Methods A case-control study with unmatched pairs was conducted. Clinical records from patients in Veracruz, Mexico, between 2016 and 2024 were reviewed, selected from a pathology service database. All patients diagnosed with endometriosis were included, and for each case, one control was selected - a woman diagnosed with another gynecological pathology at the same service. Key independent variables included early menarche, body mass index (BMI), family planning method, and parity; the dependent variable was endometriosis. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software, applying odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Results A total of 324 cases and 330 controls were identified. Overweight status or higher (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.6-3.3), grade 2 obesity (OR 7.6, 95% CI 2.9-17.7), and absence of early menarche (OR 1.55, 95% CI 1.12-2.14) were significantly associated with endometriosis (p < 0.05). In contrast, contraceptive method, parity, and endometriosis showed no significant association (p > 0.05). Conclusions High body mass index (BMI) and absence of early menarche are factors associated with endometriosis. Primary care physicians should suspect endometriosis in patients presenting symptoms alongside these factors. Our study opens new avenues for better understanding this condition and enhancing its clinical management through the identification of effective strategies for early diagnosis and disease control. Key messages • Identifying the factors associated with endometriosis allows physicians to make timely diagnosis and treatment, avoiding the obstacles that this disease brings with it. • Promote healthy habits to reduce endometriosis risk, highlighting the link between overweight, obesity, and this condition. Raise public awareness about the dangers of a high BMI.