The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MCTI), and the Alana Institute will allocate R$60 million to finance research and development of technologies for diagnosing and treating endometriosis, pelvic pain and improving menstrual health – problems that affect 10% of women of childbearing age, including teenagers. The causes of endometriosis are not known. Expert hypotheses relate to genetic, hormonal, immunological factors and the route of menstrual blood towards the abdominal cavity. Related news: SUS will offer new treatments for endometriosis. Menstrual pain takes 4 out of 10 students out of class in the country. Research highlights the strength of the debate about menstrual dignity on social networks. Of the total announced this Tuesday (9) in Brasília, R$50 million will be disbursed by the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq) in public notices for research and innovation in women's health.  The other R$10 million will be provided by the Alana Institute for the creation of a national research network specialized in women's health. Public health problem According to Minister Luciana Santos, the investments are a State response to a public health problem.  “They demonstrate the Brazilian Government’s commitment to science as an instrument of care, inclusion and promotion of the quality of life of Brazilian women.” "What is not researched is not understood. What is not understood is not treated", said the CEO of Instituto Alana, Flavia Doria.  Early diagnosis of endometriosis allows for better medical treatment, reduces pain and prevents the disease from worsening. "The later this pain is treated, the higher the price. The body learns to feel this pain. Over time, inflammation mechanisms accumulate. What was not taken care of in adolescence can become chronic pain in adulthood", warns the CEO of the Alana Institute. SUS service According to the Ministry of Health portal, endometriosis is a disease characterized by the development and growth of stroma and endometrial glands (parts of the tissue that lines the uterus internally) outside the uterine cavity.  This tissue displacement can cause a chronic inflammatory reaction, with an estimated prevalence rate of between 5% and 15% of women of reproductive age. The Minister of Health, Alexandre Padilha, present at the announcement, assesses that there is little visibility of the diseases that affect women. He expects that the research that will be carried out will allow “building a robust public policy” and improving care for women in the Unified Health System (SUS). “It is essential to evaluate the quality of what is being delivered and develop new technologies”, defended the minister.