Leicester students develop app to help improve endometriosis diagnosis
By Health Correspondent
Two University of Leicester students have developed an app designed to help improve the diagnosis of endometriosis by making it easier for patients to record and share their symptoms.
Akanksha Sharma, a medical student, and Umaima Eftikhar Bondre, who is studying for a Master's in AI for Business Intelligence, created Ember to help patients track symptoms over time, identify patterns and provide clinicians with a clearer picture of their condition.
Endometriosis affects an estimated 190 million people worldwide and can cause chronic pain, fatigue, digestive problems and fertility difficulties.
Despite its impact, diagnosis can take years. A March 2026 report by Endometriosis UK found the average wait between first visiting a GP with symptoms and receiving a diagnosis was nine years and four months.
The app allows users to record symptoms as they happen and share their information directly with clinicians. It also includes a feature that retrieves relevant information from official NHS sources rather than generating its own medical advice.
The idea was developed through the University's Med Tech Innovation Programme, which brings together students from medical, science and computer science backgrounds to find solutions to healthcare challenges.
Akanksha said the app aims to help patients communicate changes in their symptoms more clearly during appointments, where details can sometimes be forgotten over time.
The project is now receiving support from the University's Growth Academy as the founders explore its future development.
With a working prototype in place, their next steps include gathering patient feedback, seeking clinical input and exploring research collaborations.
The students are also looking for patients to test the app, alongside clinicians, researchers and potential industry partners interested in supporting its development.
Contact the team by emailing founders.ember@outlook.com.
