Diabetes is a silent disease that affects vision and can lead to serious diseases such as the macular diabetic edema
Serious vision problems affect over 1.4 million people in Brazil. However, many give up the treatment of the disease for serious eyes
Diabetes is a silent, chronic and unhealthy disease that is characterized by maintaining high blood sugar levels. Currently, over 10% of the Brazilian population suffers from illness, according to Vigel, an organ that constitutes the surveillance system of chronic diseases (DCNT) not communicable.
The complications of diabetes
They are risk factors for obesity of diabetes, heredity, bad diet, physical inactivity and high blood pressure. Those who suffer from illness can have complications cardiovascular diseases, chronic kidney diseases, skin problems, auditory difficulties, Alzheimer’s disease, depression and eye diseases, leading to loss of sight.
The main losses of vision
Research conducted by the School of Social Sciences of the Getulio Vargas Foundation (FGV/CPDOC), in collaboration with the NGO Retina Brasil, an association of retinal diseases and the support of Roche Farva Brasil (diabetic) and reveals the main macular challenges) (EMD).
These conditions affect about 1.4 million people in Brazil today and, with the aging of the population and the growth of diabetes cases in the country, this number will be reached 1.7 million in the next five years.
Taking care is essential!
According to the survey, almost a third of the interviewees reveals that he has renounced care at a certain point, which can certainly lead to the worsening of the symptoms and the clinical evolution of the disease, according to the ophthalmologist Patricia Kakizaki, specialist in the clinical and surgical retina of the Federal University of San Paolo (UNIFESP). “DMRI and EMD are conditions that influence the central area of the retina – La Macula, responsible for the sharpness of the vision – and undermining routine activities as a guide, reading or even shopping in the supermarket. The treatment can request the application of intravidation injections (within the eye) up to once a month, which represent a great weight for patients and family members”, explains the doctor.
Diseases leading to the loss of vision
Almost half of the patients (45%) said they had a serious loss of vision at the time of the interview, with deep impacts in everyday life. Also according to dr. Kakizaki, late diagnosis and lack of adherence to treatment are possible explanations for this scenario. But according to her, medicine has sought alternatives to improve the vision and quality of life of these patients.
“Today we are following the development of innovations capable of preventing the progression of these diseases, stabilizing or often improving the vision of patients. Furthermore, it is possible to provide more comfort, reducing the frequency of treatment and the need to displace offices and clinics”, details the expert.
High cost makes it difficult to continue the treatment
The study also indicates other aspects that have been affected in the life of patients as a financial condition and mental health. Six out of 10 patients had financial impacts and almost half (47%) declare they have, having or would like to have psychological support to deal with the condition. In addition, 72% of patients live with other diseases, such as diabetes (which can cause EMD), hypertension, kidney conditions, hypothesadism, arthrosis, among others
“Science invests in research to develop solutions that improve the perspective for the treatment and control of retina diseases. At the same speed, aim for a better experience for the patient,” says Michelle França, medical leader of Roche Farva Brasil.
“We aim for a future in which control and life with eye conditions have the least possible impact on the life of these patients,” he concludes.
The survey listened to 155 people from all regions of the country. The goal was to understand the perception of patients, the rehabilitation process, the quality of life and the main changes that the condition causes. 65% of the interviewees are women, most (59%) at 60 or more. About a third of the patients underwent treatment by Unified Health System (Sus) at the time of the interview.
Retina Brasil
Maria Antonieta Leopoldi, vice -president of the retina Brazil, says that the research has brought a lot of important information. According to her, the study indicates the need to improve assistance to patients who are urgently.
He also underlined the importance of combining the treatment of DMRI or EMD with psychological support. This is an action that contributes to the continuity of the treatment and the stabilization of the condition of the eyes. Many interviewees have marked the impact that Covid’s pandemic led to the suspension of treatment and loss of vision.
Other factors that implied the suspension of injection treatment were serious diseases, depression and high costs.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
