New York, April 17 : Indian American cookbook author Padma Lakshmi is battling endometriosis, an painful condition which is one of the top three causes of female infertility.

"(It''s) a silent epidemic," the New York Post quoted her as saying.

According to her, endometriosis can be treated and cured if addressed early.

She has now created the Endometriosis Foundation of America with Dr. Tamer Seckin.

The foundation will launch Monday at the first Blossom Ball at the Prince George Ballroom. (ANI)