New concepts for general practitioners: health news from Rügen in focus!

New concepts for general practitioners: health news from Rügen in focus!

The current issue of the 5in5 Rügen newsletter is all about the topic of health. The newsletter reports on various health challenges and innovative approaches to combating these problems until November 15th. A particularly moving article is about Maria Krysik from Greifswald, who developed type 1 diabetes at the age of just seven. This incurable form of the disease has greatly affected not only her own life, but also that of her loved ones. Nevertheless, it turns out that children with diabetes can learn to master their everyday lives, even if the challenges are great.

But what significance does diabetes have in general? According to the World Health Organization The number of people with diabetes has increased from 200 million in 1990 to an impressive 830 million in 2022. What is particularly alarming is that prevalence is increasing faster in low- and middle-income countries than in wealthier countries. More than half of those affected do not take any medication, which further exacerbates the situation. Diabetes can cause serious side effects such as blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks and strokes and was responsible for over 2 million deaths in 2021.

Research and prevention

There is also intensive research into depression in Greifswald. Under the direction of Prof. Hans J. Grabe, the connection between early childhood emotional abuse and an increased risk of depression is being investigated. It has been proven that genetic factors also play a role here. The aim is to develop better therapies by analyzing genes and biomaterials to help those affected.

Another inspiring example is Denis, 45 years old, who made a clean break after 30 years of drug and alcohol addiction. With the support of the Kiek In competence center in Ribnitz-Damgarten, he has managed to get his life under control and has been working at Café Klönstuv since March. Such success stories are crucial to show that a lot can be achieved with the right help.

Lack of family doctors

But diabetes and mental illnesses are not the only current issues in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. The shortage of family doctors also represents a major challenge. Around 80 family doctors are missing, especially in rural regions. The average age of practicing doctors is 48.1 years, which further exacerbates the problem. The general practitioners' association criticizes the increasing outpatient use in hospitals and has proposed a relief concept (HERA-MV) in which medical tasks are to be delegated to medical professionals. However, the financing for this remains open.

In order to offer citizens practical support, the Vital&Gezund health fair will take place in Rostock on November 22nd. Visitors can look forward to free health checks and lectures on topics such as nutrition and mental health. Admission is free; advance registration is not necessary.

Overall, it shows that there are both challenges and progress in the health system in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. The collaboration between research, practicing doctors and care centers is crucial to achieve a sustainable improvement in the health situation of the population.