Survey Reveals Most Women with Fibroids Offered Hysterectomies Over Minimally Invasive Treatments

A recent survey commissioned by the Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) and conducted by The Harris Poll revealed striking findings about the treatment options offered to women diagnosed with uterine fibroids. The survey, which included over 1,000 women in the USA, highlighted that a significant majority of women diagnosed with uterine fibroids were primarily presented with hysterectomy as a treatment option (53%). In contrast, less than 20% were informed about less invasive alternatives such as over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), oral contraceptives, and endometrial ablation.

The survey uncovered a notable lack of awareness among women about uterine fibroids. Seventy-two percent of women are not aware of their risk for developing fibroids, even though uterine fibroids are common and up to 77% of women may develop them in their lifetime. This lack of awareness is particularly noticeable among women of color, with African American women experiencing the highest rates of fibroid incidence. 

John C. Lipman from the Atlanta Fibroid Center, who advised on the report, emphasized the importance of educating women about all available treatment options. He criticized the predominant focus on surgical options over minimally invasive alternatives like UFE, noting that this approach limits women’s ability to make fully informed healthcare decisions.

UFE, a minimally invasive outpatient procedure guided by imaging technology, involves blocking the blood supply to fibroids with tiny particles, leading them to shrink and resolve symptoms by 90%. Despite its proven effectiveness, the survey indicated that many women first learned about UFE from sources other than their healthcare providers. 

The survey also highlighted disparities in awareness among different demographic groups. A substantial proportion of younger women and those from Hispanic (50%) and African American  (37%) communities reported being unfamiliar with uterine fibroids and their treatment options. Misconceptions about risk and treatment effectiveness were also common among these groups with 22% of Hispanic women and 36% of African American women not even knowing they were at risk for developing uterine fibroids.

Robert J. Lewandowski, president of the SIR, emphasized the need for improved physician and patient education to address these disparities. He called for concerted efforts to ensure that all women, regardless of background, are fully informed about their risks and the range of available treatment options.

Overall, the survey serves as a crucial resource for raising awareness and advocating for informed decision-making among women diagnosed with uterine fibroids, promoting equitable access to effective treatments like UFE. To read the full report, please visit the SIR website.

Learn More About Uterine Fibroids with American Fibroid Centers 

If you would like to learn more about uterine fibroids and uterine fibroid embolization, please contact us today to talk to an expert and schedule an appointment to see if you are at risk.