The rising incidence of maculopathies has sparked concern among experts, leading too calls for their inclusion in the national chronic disease plan.
Maculopathy, a disease affecting the macula—the central part of the retina—requires not only medical intervention but also lifestyle changes and regular monitoring by a doctor to prevent deterioration. “The situation is alarming; doctors launch the appeal to speed up the recognition of maculopathy as chronic diseases and see to it that these are placed in the National Chronic Disease Plan,” a recent statement read.
Among the most critically important medical treatments are intravitreal injections for wet maculopathy. These injections deliver anti-VEGF drugs, which reduce the abnormal growth of blood vessels and limit damage to the retina. Dynamic phototherapy is also used in some cases,and laser treatments,while used in specific situations,can help seal leaking blood vessels and reduce scar formation.
Combating Maculopathy: A Multifaceted Approach
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Medical treatment alone is insufficient in managing maculopathy. Lifestyle modifications play a crucial role in prevention. A healthy diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, zinc, and lutein, all essential for eye health, is paramount. Incorporating omega-3 fatty acids found in oily fish and flax seeds is also beneficial.Avoiding smoking, a known risk factor for maculopathy, is crucial. Regular physical exercise is another critically important factor.
Protecting your eyes from the sun with UV-filtering sunglasses is a simple yet effective measure to prevent retinal damage. Frequent eye exams are essential for early detection and management of the disease.
“This inclusion [in the National Chronic Disease Plan] means guaranteeing the patient’s right to have the disease managed in a fair and appropriate manner, at a clearly national level,” the statement continued. “These are the two focal points that emerged in the meeting held in Rome in the presence of…”
The push for national recognition of maculopathy as a chronic disease highlights the growing concern surrounding this condition and the need for comprehensive, accessible care for those affected.
A recent meeting hosted by the parliamentary intergroup on the prevention and treatment of eye diseases brought together leading clinicians, patient advocacy groups, and institutions to address the growing concern of macular degeneration in Italy.
“The most prevalent forms of macular degeneration are age-related, specifically neovascular or wet macular degeneration and diabetic macular edema, a complication of diabetes,” explained a spokesperson for the intergroup. “Currently, over 500,000 Italians are affected by these conditions, a figure that is already alarmingly high.”
Experts warn that this number is projected to double by 2040, driven primarily by Italy’s aging population and the increasing prevalence of diabetes.
A Costly Burden: The Economic Impact of Macular Degeneration
A recent study shed light on the substantial economic burden associated with macular degeneration. The lifetime cost of caring for a single patient with the condition is estimated at €60,000, with social costs accounting for a staggering 67% of this total.
“The study highlights the critical need to optimize patient care pathways,” emphasized a leading ophthalmologist. “By providing timely and comprehensive treatment, as outlined in the National Chronicity Plan, we can significantly improve patient adherence to therapy. This,in turn,could lead to a reduction of over one-third in healthcare costs.”
The intergroup meeting underscored the urgent need for a multi-pronged approach to address the growing challenge of macular degeneration in Italy. This includes raising public awareness, promoting early detection and intervention, and ensuring access to timely and effective treatment for all patients.
## world Today News Expert Interview: The Urgent Need for Maculopathy Recognition
**World Today News:** The rise in maculopathy cases is alarming experts, prompting calls for its inclusion in the national chronic disease plan. Today, we are joined by Dr. [Expert Name], a leading ophthalmologist specializing in retinal diseases, to shed light on this critical issue.
Dr. [Expert Name], thank you for joining us.
**Dr. [Expert Name]:** Thank you for having me.
**World Today News:** Can you explain what maculopathy is and why it’s causing such concern?
**Dr. [Expert Name]:** Maculopathy refers to any disease that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. This can led to blurred or distorted vision, making everyday tasks like reading and recognizing faces challenging.
The concern stems from the increasing incidence of maculopathy, especially age-related macular degeneration (AMD). As our population ages, we see more people developing this sight-threatening condition. Neglecting it can lead to irreversible vision loss.
**World Today News**: what are some of the risk factors associated with maculopathy?
**Dr. [Expert Name]:** Age is a meaningful risk factor, as AMD is more common in those over 50.Smoking, a family history of the disease, and high blood pressure also increase the risk.
**World Today News:** What are the current medical treatments available for maculopathy?
**Dr. [Expert Name]:** There are effective treatments available, particularly for wetAMD, the more aggressive form. Intravitreal injections,delivering anti-VEGF drugs directly into the eye,are proving highly effective in slowing down or even reversing vision loss.
Photodynamic therapy and laser treatments are also used in specific cases to target leaking blood vessels and prevent scar formation.
**World Today News:** You mentioned that medical treatment alone isn’t enough. What role does lifestyle play in managing maculopathy?
**Dr. [Expert Name]:** Absolutely. Lifestyle modifications are crucial for both prevention and management.
A diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, zinc and lutein, perhaps found in leafy greens, colourful fruits and vegetables, and oily fish, is important for eye health.
Avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and engaging in regular physical activity can also reduce the risk.
**World today News:** Early detection is vital for any disease. What can individual take to ensure they get timely diagnosis and treatment?
**Dr. [expert Name]:** regular eye exams are essential,especially as we age.
Diligent self-monitoring is also important. Be aware of any changes in your vision, such as blurring, distortion or difficulty seeing in low light. Don’t hesitate to consult your ophthalmologist if you notice anything unusual.
**World Today News:** Why are doctors advocating for maculopathy to be included in the National Chronic Disease plan?
**Dr. [Expert Name]:** Its inclusion would guarantee patients access to timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment and ongoing management. This means ensuring accessibility to specialized care, medications, and supportive resources, ultimately improving their quality of life and helping to preserve their vision.
**World Today News:** Dr. [Expert Name], thank you for sharing your expertise and insights on this important topic.
**Dr. [Expert Name]:** You’re welcome.I hope this raises awareness about maculopathy and encourages people to take proactive steps toward protecting their vision.
