Breaking the Stigma: Sharing a List of Chronic Illnesses Among PWDs in the Philippines

Breaking the Stigma: Sharing a List of Chronic Illnesses Among PWDs in the Philippines

Chronic illnesses are a tough reality that many people, especially those with disabilities in the Philippines, face every day. These illnesses are life-long and need to be managed daily, which can be an extremely challenging task. Living with a chronic illness can be a lonely and isolating experience, and people with chronic illnesses often feel stigmatized and misunderstood.

In the Philippines, there is a growing community of people with disabilities (PWDs) who are working hard to break the stigma around chronic illnesses. They are sharing their stories, educating the public, and advocating for better policies and accommodations. In this article, we will explore some of the most common chronic illnesses among PWDs in the Philippines and how they are impacting the lives of those who live with them.

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the body’s ability to produce insulin. Insulin is essential for the body to use glucose from food as energy. Without insulin, glucose builds up in the bloodstream which can lead to serious health complications. People with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin injections or use an insulin pump every day to manage their blood sugar levels.

In the Philippines, there are around 400,000 people living with type 1 diabetes. Many of them face challenges accessing insulin and other necessary medical supplies due to the high cost and lack of availability. This can make managing their illness extremely difficult and costly.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. MS damages the myelin sheath that surrounds and protects nerve fibers, disrupting the transmission of nerve impulses. People with MS may experience a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue, muscle weakness, coordination problems, and cognitive decline.

In the Philippines, MS is considered a rare disease, but the number of people living with the illness is increasing. Many people with MS struggle to get access to proper medical care, diagnosis, and treatments.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the joints. RA causes inflammation and pain in the joints, which can lead to stiffness, deformity, and loss of function. People with RA may also experience fatigue, fever, and weight loss.

In the Philippines, RA is a common chronic illness affecting people of all ages. However, many people with RA struggle with limited access to healthcare services, medication, and rehabilitation.

Conclusion

Living with a chronic illness can be a challenging experience, and PWDs in the Philippines face unique struggles in managing their conditions. Despite these challenges, the community of PWDs is working hard to break the stigma surrounding chronic illnesses and improve access to healthcare services. By understanding the challenges faced by people with chronic illnesses and advocating for change, we can work together to create a more inclusive and supportive society for all.