The Physiopathology of Endometriosis: Pollution and Dioxin

Reports in the literature of an increasing incidence of endometriosis in industrialized countries and increasing problems with pollution in these countries leads to speculation about a possible link between one of the most harmful components of pollution, dioxin, and endometriosis. To establish this link, we need to examine three issues more closely: What are the effects of dioxin, what is the true incidence of endometriosis, and what is the nature of the association between endometriosis and dioxin. This report reviews current thinking on these issues.