The Federal Ministry of Health is organising workshops to educate Healthcare Providers on effectively addressing diabetic retinopathy, a prevalent cause of blindness among people with diabetes. Dr. Oteri Okolo, the National Coordinator of the National Eye Health Programme (NEHP), inaugurated the first workshop, emphasising the government’s commitment to reducing diabetes-related blindness. This program is part of a broader array of strategies to combat the rising prevalence of Diabetes in the region, reflecting the government’s proactive approach to public health.
Dr. Okolo emphasised the importance of equipping healthcare providers with the essential resources and expertise to lower the rates of diabetic retinopathy and its harmful effects. This marks a vital progression in the effort to prevent unnecessary vision impairment. The National Guideline for Screening and Management of Diabetic Retinopathy was created by a team of experts from different medical backgrounds, such as endocrinologists, ophthalmologists, and individuals with diabetes mellitus. Okolo states this evidence-based document aims to promote a comprehensive, cost-effective, and patient-focused approach to screening and managing patients with diabetes mellitus.
Medical workers should promote regular eye exams and a healthy lifestyle.
During the launch event, specialists highlighted the significance of prioritising the patient in managing diabetes and its associated issues. Professor Hannah Faal, Dr. Sixtus Ozumba, Dr. Olopade Rotimi, Dr. Oderinlo, Prof. Akinsola, and Prof. Dennis Nkanga emphasised the importance of patient involvement in diabetes management and preventing illnesses. Professor Hannah, a respected specialist in global vision wellness, highlighted the significance of timely detection and management of the disease, while Dr. Ozumba, from the Society of Family Health Physicians of Nigeria, underscored the crucial role of primary healthcare providers in identifying individuals vulnerable to the disease.
Also, the panel advised healthcare providers to encourage patients to proactively manage their health by scheduling regular eye check-ups, monitoring blood sugar levels, and making healthy lifestyle choices. Adopting a patient-focused strategy can improve outcomes for individuals with diabetes. During the workshop, attendees explored the latest treatment innovations, shared personal anecdotes about the illness, discussed existing limitations, and brainstormed strategies to enhance patient care. This collaborative effort aimed to equip healthcare providers with the knowledge and tools needed to support patients with diabetic retinopathy better.
Reports show that 30% of diabetics may face severe eye conditions.
Furthermore, the National Coordinator thanked Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister, and Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Minister of State for Health, Daju Kachollom, the Permanent Secretary, for their contributions to public health. In their speech, thanks go to Dr. Chukwuma Anyaike for his exceptional leadership. They also appreciate the assistance and contribution of the Lagos State Ministry of Health, various professional groups and associations, esteemed members of the academic community, the dedicated team at Eye Foundation Hospital, pharmaceutical companies like Novartis, the Nigeria Vision 2020 links programme, as well as the generous support from the International Centre for Eye Health in London.
Meanwhile, a recent study revealed a notable rise in the incidence of diabetic retinopathy, indicating that about 30 percent of people with diabetes in the country may experience this serious eye condition. Inadequate blood sugar management, high blood pressure, longstanding diabetes, and infrequent eye exams are all factors increasing the risk of this upward trend. These discoveries emphasise the importance of implementing thorough screening and preventative strategies to tackle the increasing prevalence of the illness in the nation.
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New technological tools and advancements in medical equipment significantly improve the early diagnosis and treatment of the illness. Advancements like optical coherence tomography (OCT) and retinal imaging devices empower healthcare professionals to identify retinal alterations sooner, leading to prompt treatment and better patient results. Moreover, the advancement of affordable and portable screening devices is improving the availability of eye care services, specifically in remote and neglected regions. These crucial technological advancements greatly aid the fight against diabetic and diabetes-related blindness in the country.