Next week is 'World Mitochondrial Disease Week', also known as World MITO week. During this week, attention is drawn to various mitochondrial diseases, such as ADOA and ADOA-plus. The goal is to improve the lives of people with these diseases and to raise awareness among healthcare workers and the rest of our society.
In the context of World MITO week, today we share 5 facts about World MITO week and ADOA(-plus).
1 The theme of World MITO Week 2024 is 'Illuminate Tomorrow: Revitalise your energy'.
2 Mitochondria are the 'powerhouse' of your cells. When they are affected, it affects every aspect of life. By shedding light on this, society can better understand and support people with mitochondrial disease.
3 In ADOA(-plus) there is too little or not properly functioning OPA1 protein available for the mitochondria. This causes them to break down or not to be able to supply enough energy. Optic nerves in particular are very sensitive to this, causing them to break down and die.
4 With ADOA-plus there are even more complaints that are caused by this lack of energy, for example deafness, balance problems, muscle weakness, reduced feeling and fatigue. Unfortunately there is no treatment yet, so it is important to keep your life in balance and to be very conscious about your energy distribution. An occupational therapist can help with this.
5 On Saturday 21 September, various monuments, landmarks and buildings will literally be lit up in green to draw extra attention to the theme. In 2023, 383 locations will be illuminated!
In addition to ADOA(-plus) there are many more mitochondrial disorders. 1 in 5000 people will be affected by this. The most common disorders are CPEO, LHON, MELAS, MERRF, MIDD, NARP and Leigh Syndrome.
This year, World MITO Week will shine an extra spotlight on LHON with a LHON Awareness Day Webinar on Thursday, September 19, and on the rare condition TK2d with TK2d Awareness Day taking place on September 10.
Read more https://mitochondrialdiseaseweek.org/
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