
International Scientific Symposium 2025 | Toronto, Canada
Pathways to Progress: A Decade of Insights and Innovations in EDS and HSD
In-person in Toronto, Canada, with virtual attendance options
Join us for the 2025 International Scientific Symposium, taking place from September 17-21, 2025 in Toronto, Canada—a hybrid event designed specifically for healthcare professionals. This symposium will bring together the world’s leading researchers, clinicians, and experts in Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS) and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD) to share groundbreaking discoveries, foster collaboration, and inspire the next generation of scientific and clinical advancements.
Day 1: Cutting-Edge Research and Breakthroughs
The symposium will open on Wednesday, September 17, with a focus on Scientific Breakthroughs in EDS & HSD, featuring insights from key experts, followed by a live Q&A. We continue the meeting by looking to the future with The Road to 2026 project, followed by an exclusive State of the Art Lecture on infection, immunology, and systemic diseases. Networking opportunities conclude the day at our Cocktail Reception & Poster Session.
Day 2: A Focus on Classical and Vascular EDS
Sessions continue on Thursday, September 18, covering Classical EDS, including the latest management and molecular updates, followed by a comprehensive Vascular EDS series, featuring invited speakers and expert discussions. This day includes in-depth poster presentations and networking sessions, culminating in a thought-provoking keynote. The evening will conclude with the Gala Dinner, a perfect setting for fostering collaborations.
Day 3: Rarer Types of EDS and Evolving Research
On Friday, September 19, we dive into the Rarer Types of EDS, including clinical management updates and sessions on allelic heterogeneity. An extended look at hEDS and HSD will include results from the latest DELPHI survey and a deep dive into diagnostic criteria and future modeling. We’ll also explore the barriers in access to care and the complexities of navigating uncertainty in rare conditions.
Day 4: Workshops
On Saturday, September 20, choose from four expert-led workshops:
- Pediatrics
- Allied Health
- Clinical Assessment and Pathways (CDEs)
- Genetic Counseling
The workshops will be repeated three times, in-person attendees will be able to attend three out of the four workshops. Preselection is not required; workshops are available for in-person attendees only.
Day 5: Community day
End the symposium on Sunday, September 21, with an immersive day of conversations between healthcare professionals and community members with lived experiences, coming together to discuss updates on key comorbidities, sharing experiences, concerns, and perspectives.
Who can attend the International Scientific Symposium?
This event is intended for health professionals, with the exception of the final day, on Sunday, September 21, where we open the audience to community members, their families, and caregivers. We strongly encourage clinicians and researchers to attend this meeting – the multidisciplinary nature of the conference provides an opportunity to talk to specialists from many different fields including basic scientists, geneticists, internists, orthopedic and vascular surgeons, dentists, pediatricians, physiotherapists, genetic counselors, nurses, and others working with EDS and HSD. All 5 days are included in the price of a general entry ticket.
How can I watch this event?
This event is hybrid and will be delivered virtually via Zoom webinar. Attendees are welcome to join from anywhere in the world. Registration includes lifetime access to the event recordings and materials.
We recommend using worldtimebuddy.com or your preferred time zone converter to find the event time in your location.  
If you have any questions, please contact our events team.  
Abstract Submissions
We are pleased to open the Call for Abstracts for the Ehlers-Danlos Society’s 2025 International Scientific Symposium, themed Pathways to Progress: A Decade of Insights and Innovations in EDS & HSD. We invite researchers, clinicians, and advocates to share groundbreaking research, clinical advancements, and innovative care approaches in Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS) and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD).
Symposium Themes:
- Scientific Breakthroughs in EDS & HSD
Submissions that provide new insights into foundational science, including advancements in biomarkers, genetic research, and molecular mechanisms of EDS and HSD. Studies addressing diagnostic innovation and predictive biomarkers are encouraged. - The Road to 2026: Evolving Classifications and Diagnostic Pathways
Abstracts focused on historical perspectives, classification revisions, and delphi surveys that seek to refine diagnostic criteria. We welcome research that supports a clearer diagnostic path and enhances the understanding of EDS and HSD taxonomy. - Advances in Classical EDS
Research submissions that cover the latest management protocols, molecular findings, and therapeutic developments specific to Classical EDS. Studies highlighting progress in patient outcomes and quality of life are especially relevant. - Innovations in Vascular EDS Management and Treatment
Submissions are invited on vascular EDS, with a focus on breakthroughs in treatment options, risk mitigation, and clinical management strategies. Research with a multidisciplinary approach is encouraged to improve patient care. - Rare EDS Types: Clinical and Molecular Perspectives
Abstracts addressing rare EDS types, including clinical case studies, unique therapeutic approaches, and genetic insights. Research focused on novel treatments or pathways to therapy, particularly for rare and emerging subtypes, is welcomed.
- Understanding hEDS and HSD: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Frontiers
We invite abstracts that explore diagnostic criteria, clinical distinctions, and the latest findings on hEDS and HSD. Studies that investigate diagnostic overlap, allelic heterogeneity, and patient-centered care models are of particular interest. - Barriers to Care and Access Issues
Abstracts addressing systemic and logistical barriers to care, including access issues, resource gaps, and solutions to improve care for patients with EDS and HSD. Studies that suggest policy changes or model improvements are encouraged. - Pediatric EDS & HSD
Research focused on pediatric manifestations, assessment pathways, and long-term outcomes of EDS and HSD in children. Studies aimed at advancing early diagnosis and tailored pediatric care approaches are particularly relevant. - Allied Health, Genetic Counseling, and Interdisciplinary Care Models
Submissions that discuss the role of allied health professionals, genetic counseling advancements, and interdisciplinary care models to improve patient outcomes. Research that examines patient education, holistic care strategies, and integrative approaches to complex care is welcomed.
Submission Guidelines
We welcome abstract submissions for oral presentations, poster presentations, and late-breaking abstracts. Submissions should align with one or more of the symposium’s key themes and contribute to the understanding of EDS and HSD. Abstracts must present original research or novel clinical approaches that have not been published more than 18 months prior to the submission deadline.
Abstract Categories
Molecular Pathogenesis: What is the spectrum of genetics, epigenetic or other mechanisms underlying the different forms of EDS and HSD. Novel gene identification. What cellular events and signaling pathways drive the different manifestations of EDS and HSD. New findings in, proteomics, metabolomics, animal models of disease and other foundational research.
Natural history and Genotype/Phenotype correlations in EDS: Research focusing on epidemiology, natural history in different age groups, and genotype/phenotype correlations. Papers here would shed light on useful parameters for prognostication, surveillance and preventative approaches.
Clinical Research: Advances in clinical diagnostics, novel approaches for treatment, and management of the manifestations and complications in EDS and HSD. How do environmental factors (e.g. exercise, circadian rhythm, exposures) modify outcomes.
Innovative Care Models: Novel approaches to care delivery, patient engagement, and integrative care.
Patient and Community Impact: Studies that focus on improving quality of life and health outcomes for people with EDS and HSD.
Other: We encourage you to select from the aforementioned categories and only select this if you feel your work does not fit into any of the above.Submission Timeline
Abstract Submission Opens: December 16, 2024
Abstract Submission Closes: March 17, 2025
Notification of Outcome: Week Commencing May 5, 2025We can accept a very limited number of late-breaking abstracts:
Late-Breaking Abstract Submission Opens: May 10, 2025
Late-Breaking Abstract Submission Closes: May 30, 2025Review Process for Late-Breaking Abstracts: June 2-16, 2025
Notification of Outcome: Week Commencing June 23, 2025
Venue Details
Secure your stay at the heart of the action! Book your discounted accommodation at the Hilton Toronto for the Ehlers-Danlos Society’s International Scientific Symposium. Stay on-site to make the most of your experience, with convenient access to all sessions and networking opportunities. Rooms are limited – book now to secure your spot!
Hilton Toronto, 145 Richmond St W, Toronto, ON M5H 2L2, Canada.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Sponsorship opportunities are now open for this conference, with both virtual and in-person packages available. If you’re interested in sponsoring this event, please complete the sponsorship inquiry form below, and a member of our team will be in touch to discuss the available options.