In Argentina, 3.6 million people live with rare diseases (EPOF), which represents 1 in 13 people or, on average, 1 in 4 families. More than 7 out of 10 of these diseases are genetic in origin and often manifest in childhood. One of the main challenges is the so-called 'diagnostic odyssey': on average, an accurate diagnosis can take between 5 and 10 years and require up to 8 visits to different specialists. Furthermore, it is estimated that more than 4 out of 10 people receive at least one misdiagnosis during the process. On the occasion of World Rare Disease Day, a campaign called 'Invisible Matches' was held in Buenos Aires. In Las Heras Park, footballs were placed with the inscriptions 'Reach Awareness', 'The Most Important Match', and 'A Match No One Sees'. Alongside the balls, there was information about rare diseases, which affect fewer than 1 in 2,000 people. This initiative, driven by a biopharmaceutical company, aims to shed light on the realities of many Argentines living with EPOF and the difficulties they face in medical, bureaucratic, and social spheres. 'We support these individuals and work to develop therapeutic alternatives that contribute to improving their quality of life,' concluded Dr. Masllorens.
