New York, NY — March 26, 2026 – The Endometriosis Foundation of America (EndoFound) today welcomed the announcement that U.S. Representative Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) has joined the bipartisan House Endometriosis Caucus as Co-Chair, marking a significant step forward in advancing national awareness, research, and policy solutions for endometriosis—a disease affecting more than 1 in 10 women and girls worldwide.
Representative Harshbarger joins Representative Nikema Williams (D-GA), who has served as Co-Chair since relaunching the Caucus in November 2021 and has led efforts for over four years to elevate endometriosis as a national health priority.
The House Endometriosis Caucus serves as a bipartisan platform to educate Members of Congress, elevate patient voices, and advance policies that improve outcomes for those living with endometriosis. EndoFound has supported the Caucus’s continued momentum, including its recent relaunch, with EndoFound contributing to expanded awareness and engagement efforts.
Representative Williams has championed the Endometriosis CARE Act, legislation aimed at expanding federal research funding, reducing diagnostic delays—currently averaging 7–10 years—improving provider training for earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment, and advancing national standards of care.
“As a pharmacist for decades prior to serving in Congress, I’ve seen firsthand how often women’s health conditions like endometriosis go undiagnosed or undertreated for far too long. That must change,” said Representative Diana Harshbarger. “I’m honored to serve as Co-Chair of the Endometriosis Caucus and look forward to working with Representative Williams and passionate advocates across the country to raise awareness, improve early diagnosis, and advance meaningful, patient-centered solutions for the millions of women affected by this disease.”
Representative Williams welcomed the announcement, stating, “The Endometriosis Caucus stands in the fight for the 1 in 10 women, including myself, who suffer from Endometriosis. I have battled excruciating endometriosis pain since I was 14 years old, and I know firsthand the daily struggle faced by the estimated 6.5 million women in this country living with this debilitating disease.
The Endometriosis Caucus exists to elevate the voices of those suffering, bring long-overdue attention to this disease, and ensure their stories and needs are heard in Congress. Together, we are pushing for the awareness, research, and care that millions of women deserve.”
“As someone living with endometriosis—and having undergone three surgeries—I understand firsthand the toll this disease takes and what it means for millions of women around the world. Affecting an estimated 1 in 10 women and girls, endometriosis remains too often misunderstood and underdiagnosed. I was encouraged by my meeting with Representative Harshbarger and her leadership on this issue, and I’m hopeful about the bipartisan momentum behind the Endometriosis Caucus. The Endometriosis CARE Act is a critical step toward improving education, closing gaps in diagnosis and treatment, and advancing research. Building bipartisan support is essential to driving the systemic change needed to improve outcomes for millions,” said Alexis Roderick Joel, Chair of Advocacy and Strategic Partnerships for the Endometriosis Foundation of America (EndoFound).
Dr. Tamer Seckin, Founder of the Endometriosis Foundation of America (EndoFound), added:
“For decades, endometriosis has been under-recognized, underfunded, and misunderstood. The leadership of Representatives Williams and Harshbarger sends a powerful message that women’s health is not a partisan issue—it is a national priority. This bipartisan commitment brings us closer to a future where early diagnosis, effective treatment, and ultimately a cure are within reach.”
EndoFound applauds Representative Harshbarger’s leadership and looks forward to working with both Co-Chairs to accelerate progress in research, education, and policy.
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About the Endometriosis Foundation of America
The Endometriosis Foundation of America (EndoFound) is a leading nonprofit dedicated to increasing disease recognition, advancing advocacy, facilitating expert surgical training, and funding groundbreaking research to improve the lives of those affected by endometriosis.
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