WESTERN VISAYAS SANITARIUM AND GENERAL HOSPITAL DIABETES AND HYPERTENSION CLINIC HOLDS LECTURE ON SKIN CARE FOR DIABETES AND HYPERTENSION CLUB

 

October 22, 2024

THE WESTERN VISAYAS SANITARIUM AND GENERAL HOSPITAL DIABETES AND HYPERTENSION CLINIC HOLDS A LECTURE ON SKIN CARE FOR DIABETES AND HYPERTENSION CLUB

October 22, 2024 marks the day for this event in which the WVSGH Diabetes and Hypertension Clinic once again hold its quarterly lectures in everything that is diabetes and hypertension.  In this case, it was on taking care of the skin and vigilance on skin manifestations of diabetes and hypertension.

The lecture was attended by representatives from the hospital employees and some invited individuals from the community who are interested to know how diabetes and hypertension affects the skin and how these metabolic conditions increase the risks for diabetes and hypertension.

Collectively, about 80% of metabolic diseases like diabetes and hypertension have cutaneous or dermal manifestations and some are forebears for these diseases.  Many skin manifestations are neglected in a way because many people thought that skin illnesses or conditions are not related to other diseases. However, many of the disease entities will have skin conditions as concomitant signs or is indicative of a future diabetes and/or hypertension.

Acanthosis negricans, a darkening of the skin on the nape, axillae, breasts or arms and legs cannot be overemphasized that they are the important manifestations of pre-diabetes commonly found among pre-teens and teenagers.  This helps us realize that diabetes prevention starts at a young age.

Lipodystrophy was also tackled in the lecture especially those undergoing insulin treatment. Correct insulin injection practices were fairly mentioned to avoid such complications.  Recurrent skin infections from bacteria, fungi and viruses were also emphasized to the audience.  Other skin lesions like psoriasis, necrobiosis, hyper-/hypo-pigmentations, nail and hair problems, and on how to take care of the skin were discussed.

The greater understanding on how diabetes and hypertension affects our lives is one of the thrusts of the WVSGH Diabetes and Hypertension Clinic.  We aim to slowly make the general public understand that treatment of diabetes and hypertension does not end with medicines or at the clinic, but with taking care of the rest of the body, skin included.

Presenting the common signs of skin illness and conditions that are related to diabetes and hypertension.

Attended by hospital employees and the community, the WVSGH Diabetes and Hypertension Clinic aims to make the people understand the impact of these diseases.

This activity was made possible with the help of our PHU head, Dr. Elvira Sinoro and her office staff, Miss Psyraine Sontillano.  Mrs. Eloisa Penado, Head of the Diabetes and Hypertension Club for her dedication to the compliance to diabetes treatment of our patients, Dr. Renia Salapare, taking care of our diabetic and hypertensive clients in the Employee's Clinic.  

Also, with the help of some pharmaceutical company partners: Natrapharm, Pascual, Ajanta Pharma and Kalbe, Inc.  for our freebies, snacks and samples.

Our appreciation to our IT team represented by Sir Romel Precia, and to keep our venue clean and tidy, Mrs Elvie Sano.

And to Dr. Judy Ann Dumayas, our Medical Center Chief, Dr. Ronar Silao and Dr. Gemma Monserate-Suelo, our top management, who are always there to give us their support.

Owen Erle P. Poral, MD

Internal Medicine

Coordinator, Diabetes and Hypertension Clinic