Social work benefits patients with Ataxia in Holguín
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The Center for Research and Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxias (Cirah), the only one of its kind in Cuba, prioritizes social work to improve care for patients with ataxia, especially those with Spinocerebellar Ataxia type II (SCA2).
This disease, the most common molecular form, has a prevalence rate exceeding 47 cases per 100,000 inhabitants in the country, and its
Treatment is based on vitamin therapy and rehabilitation.
Expert Annalies Estupiñán Rodríguez points out that since ataxia is a disabling and incurable condition, social workers must assess the specific conditions of each case and act as facilitators to improve the quality of life for both patients and their families.
She added that the psychosocial impact is significant because it is common to have more than one affected person in a family, which requires creating mechanisms to ensure economic stability.
Since 2009, the center has also conducted workshops to raise awareness about ataxia's characteristics and provide psychological guidance to caregivers, as support is essential to cope with the challenges posed by the disease.
SCA2 is an incurable neurodegenerative disorder that mainly affects movement coordination, balance, and speech, with an onset age ranging from 2 to 65 years.
Globally, the prevalence rate is three to five cases per 100,000 inhabitants, but the rates in Holguín province, especially in municipalities such as Báguano and Cacocum, are notably higher. (Source: ACN)
