The study warns of a significant increase in retinal diseases in Spain, which could lead to irreversible vision loss in millions of people. With projected annual economic costs nearing 100 billion euros, the report highlights the health, social, and labor burdens these conditions impose, threatening the sustainability of the healthcare system if urgent measures are not taken. To mitigate this impact, there is a strong emphasis on the need to invest in scientific advances such as tissue engineering, which can regenerate damaged tissues. Additionally, prevention is promoted through the integration of advanced technologies like tele-ophthalmology and artificial intelligence to facilitate early diagnosis. These approaches aim to shift care from late-stage treatment to early detection and proactive management of chronic diseases linked to vision loss. This article is relevant to open data because it underscores the need for transparent and accessible data to support public health decision-making. The implementation of screening programs and emerging technologies depends on robust information systems that enable monitoring of disease prevalence and evaluation of intervention effectiveness. The availability of open and standardized data is crucial for optimizing resources, improving coordination across care levels, and ensuring an efficient and equitable healthcare response to the growing burden of avoidable blindness.
Source: antena3.comPublished on 2025-02-19