Retinitis Pigmentosa is genetic retinal dystrophy that occurs because of the photoreceptor cells undergoing gradual atrophy inside the retina. It leads to progressive vision loss in those affected and is distinguished by progressive degeneration of the retina. It is classified into three subtypes as systemic, syndromic, and simple or nonsyndromic. The systemic subtype affects multiple tissues, the syndromic subtype affects neurosensory systems like hearing, and the simple or nonsyndromic subtype affects other tissues or organs.
According to the NORD (National Organization of Rare Diseases), Retinitis Pigmentosa affects roughly 1 in 3000 to 4000 people across the globe. The regions of Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), and others have the disease prominence that is two and half times higher than other countries like the US and Europe. This is mainly caused by consanguineous marriages commonly found in the MENA region.
Therapies in the Retinitis Pigmentosa treatment market in the MENA region are off-label and include nutritional supplements and supportive measures. Nutritional supplements therapies consist of Vitamin A Palmitate, Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and vitamin E. Supportive measure therapies consist of sun lenses, optical aids, magnifiers, and low wavelength blocking sunglasses.
Clinical trials conducted in the EU and the US have shown great promise. Yet, there has been very little development in the MENA region. However, due to the high unmet needs and the growing demand for new therapies, global players are expected to enter the market and conduct clinical trial activities in the region which ultimately will improve the Retinitis Pigmentosa treatment scenario.
There have been decent efforts put by researchers to bring forth new approaches that could stop or delay the progression of vision deterioration. This however might still require a long time to be achievable. Nonetheless, Retinitis Pigmentosa management shows considerable promise in the MENA region, if enough space is allotted in developing better treatment approaches for all forms of Retinitis Pigmentosa.
Constant efforts can revitalize the impending and hopeful occasions regarding approval of new drugs that allow patients to have access to effective treatment at an affordable cost.
Source: Overlaying Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) Management in the MENA Region
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