A simple blood test that measures androgen hormone levels could help diagnose endometriosis with more than 95 per cent accuracy, according to new research.The University of Edinburgh-led findings offer hope for a faster, less invasive way to detect the condition, which affects an estimated 10 per cent of women of reproductive age worldwide—around 190 million people—and often takes years to diagnose.The researchers found that women with endometriosis have a distinct androgen hormone profile in their blood, suggesting the condition could one day be identified through a simple blood test rather than invasive procedures.Study Identifies a Unique Hormone SignatureAlso read: NHS To Roll Out Two 'Gamechanger' Tests for Faster Endometriosis Diagnosis: Know How They Work The research team analyzed blood samples from 159 women with confirmed endometriosis and 57 women without the condition. Their investigation focused on androgen hormones, including a lesser-studied group known as 11-oxygenated androgens, which are produced by the adrenal glands.The researchers discovered that women with endometriosis consistently had higher levels of 11-ketotestosterone, one of the 11-oxygenated androgens.Using this distinct hormone profile, the team was able to differentiate women with and without endometriosis, correctly identifying more than 95 per cent of those with the condition.If validated in larger clinical studies, the test could reduce reliance on invasive diagnostic procedures such as laparoscopy and help women receive treatment much earlier.The findings also provide new insights into the role of androgens in the development of endometriosis and may help guide future treatment strategies.Why Androgens MatterEndometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the womb. These cells respond to hormones, leading to inflammation, chronic pelvic pain and the formation of scar tissue.While the disease is known to be influenced by the female hormones estrogen and progesterone, the role of androgens—often referred to as male hormones, though they are naturally present in women as well—has received comparatively little attention.The researchers believe the newly identified androgen signature could improve understanding of how the disease develops and progresses.Read More: 13.5 Million Children Remain Zero-Dose In 2025 Despite Global Vaccination Gains: UN ReportWhy Earlier Diagnosis Is ImportantDiagnosing endometriosis remains a major challenge. Current methods include ultrasound, MRI scans and laparoscopy—a surgical procedure in which a camera is inserted through a small incision in the abdomen to confirm the presence of endometrial-like tissue.Because symptoms often overlap with those of other conditions, many women wait years before receiving a diagnosis. Earlier diagnosis could help reduce prolonged pain, limit disease progression and allow patients to begin treatment sooner, said the researchers, while stressing the need for larger studies.What Is Endometriosis?According to the World Health Organization (WHO), endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. It most commonly affects the ovaries, fallopian tubes and the tissue lining the pelvis.The condition can begin with a person's first menstrual period and continue until menopause. Common symptoms include severe pelvic pain, painful periods, pain during intercourse, bowel or urinary symptoms during menstruation, and difficulty conceiving.