The media fraternity in Kenya is mourning following the death of reggae deejay and media personality Njambi Koikai.
The journalist famed for his radio career passed away on Tuesday morning, June 4, at a Nairobi hospital while undergoing treatment.
Njambi was battling Stage IV Endometriosis at the time of her death.
Over the years, she has shared how the battle with the disease saw her lose some friends, relationships and even jobs.
In 2018, Njambi travelled to Atlanta Georgia and was admitted at the Center for Endometriosis Care for advanced treatment as she needed to undergo a lifesaving surgery.
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a chronic disease characterized by the growth of tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) outside the uterus.
This tissue responds to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, leading to inflammation, scarring, and pain.
The exact cause of endometriosis is unknown, but several theories suggest that it may be caused by retrograde menstruation, cellular metaplasia or stem cells. S
Symptoms include severe pain during periods, sexual intercourse, bowel movements and urination, as well as infertility and heavy bleeding.
There is no known cure, but treatments include medications and surgery to manage symptoms.
How does endometriosis affect someone?
Endometriosis can significantly impact a person’s daily life and overall well-being.
The chronic pain and discomfort associated with endometriosis can lead to fatigue, making it difficult to perform daily tasks and maintain a normal routine.
Endometriosis can also cause significant emotional distress, including depression, anxiety and feelings of isolation.
Additionally, endometriosis is a leading cause of infertility in women, as the disease can cause scarring and adhesions that can block the fallopian tubes, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg.
Heavy and prolonged bleeding during menstruation, which can lead to anemia and other complications, is another common symptom of endometriosis.
The chronic pain and discomfort associated with endometriosis can strain relationships with partners, friends and family members.
Additionally, endometriosis can make it difficult to perform daily tasks and maintain a normal work schedule due to the chronic pain and discomfort.
What happens if endometriosis is left untreated?
If endometriosis is left untreated, it can lead to several complications.
The chronic pain associated with endometriosis can significantly impact daily life and overall well-being, becoming debilitating and affecting relationships and work.
Untreated endometriosis can also cause adhesions and ovarian cysts, which can lead to infertility and other complications.
Endometriosis is a leading cause of infertility in women, as the disease can cause scarring and adhesions that block the fallopian tubes, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg.
Additionally, untreated endometriosis can lead to pelvic infections, including swollen, non-functional fallopian tubes.
Endometrial tissue can grow and adhere to the bladder, intestines and rectum, causing pain and difficulty urinating or having bowel movements.
Research suggests that women with untreated endometriosis may have a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.
Chronic inflammation is another complication, as endometrial tissue secretes inflammatory chemicals that can cause chronic inflammation throughout the body, contributing to other health issues.
In rare cases, endometrial tissue can cause bleeding and scarring in the intestines, leading to obstruction and perforation.
Women with endometriosis are also more likely to experience ectopic pregnancies, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Can someone survive with endometriosis?
It is possible for someone to survive with endometriosis.
In fact, research suggests that women with endometriosis may have a better overall survival rate compared to those without endometriosis.
For example, a study found that women with endometrial cancer and histologically proven endometriosis or adenomyosis had a higher 5-year survival rate (84.8%) compared to those without endometriosis or adenomyosis (71.6%).
Another study reported a statistically significant better survival for women with endometriosis for all malignancies combined.
