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Ainsworth Family Donates $50 Million to Launch Groundbreaking Endometriosis Research Institute

The world-first institute at UNSW aims to transform endometriosis care through precision medicine, addressing decades of underinvestment and diagnostic delays.

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close up of woman holding hot water bottle on her stomach
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Overview

  • The Ainsworth Endometriosis Research Institute (AERI) has been established at UNSW Sydney with a $50 million donation from the Ainsworth family, the largest known philanthropic gift for endometriosis research globally.
  • AERI will focus on precision medicine, leveraging genomic studies, biobanks, and advanced testing to tailor treatments and improve outcomes for endometriosis patients.
  • Endometriosis affects one in nine women in Australia and takes an average of eight years to diagnose, contributing to an annual economic burden of $7.4–$9.7 billion in the country.
  • The institute's creation is driven by the lived experiences of Anna and Lily Ainsworth, who both suffer from chronic endometriosis pain, and others like Adele Taylor, who endured years of misdiagnosis and multiple surgeries.
  • AERI plans to collaborate with international experts to close a 30-year research gap, drawing inspiration from advancements in cancer care to revolutionize endometriosis diagnosis and treatment.