Webinar registration
Beyond the Diagnosis: The $22.6 Billion Cost of Endometriosis and Chronic Pelvic Pain in Aotearoa
Friday 18 September 2026, 10:00a.m. · Online
Dr Jordan Tewhaiti-Smith
Endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain (CPP) are common, debilitating, and frequently under-recognised conditions that can affect health, education, employment, relationships, and quality of life. Despite their substantial impact, their economic burden in Aotearoa New Zealand has not previously been comprehensively quantified.
This presentation will discuss the burden of endometriosis and CPP and findings from the first New Zealand cost-of-illness study of endometriosis and CPP. Drawing on patient-reported outcomes collected using the World Endometriosis Research Foundation's EndoCost tool, together with healthcare utilisation and productivity data, the study estimated both the direct and indirect costs associated with these conditions. The presentation will also consider the implications of these findings for health policy, service planning, workplace support, and equitable access to timely diagnosis and multidisciplinary care.
About the speaker
Dr Jordan Tewhaiti-Smith is a Research Fellow at the Medical Research Institute of New Zealand and an Obstetrics and Gynaecology training registrar based at Christchurch Hospital. His research interests include clinical obstetrics and gynaecology, Hauora Māori, and improving outcomes for women, babies, and whānau in Aotearoa.
Jordan led the national study examining the economic burden of endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain in Aotearoa New Zealand. His broader work includes research on Indigenous adolescent health and the experiences of Indigenous young people with racism. He is of Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Kahungunu and Ngāpuhi descent, with strong connections to the South Island.
Registration is open to AHEN members. You'll receive a confirmation email with the joining details and a Google Calendar invite.