[DUBLIN, IRELAND, August 1, 2023] – The Ehlers-Danlos Society is thrilled to announce its highly anticipated Global Learning Conference, taking place in the vibrant city of Dublin. This landmark event is scheduled to be held from August 2-5, bringing together experts, medical professionals, researchers, and individuals affected by Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) and hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD) worldwide.
The Ehlers-Danlos Society Global Learning Conference aims to provide a dynamic platform for exchanging knowledge, research advancements, and experiences related to EDS and HSD, and associated symptoms and conditions. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in interactive discussions, attend workshops, and gain valuable insights into the latest developments in EDS and HSD management and care.
“We are excited to bring together a diverse community of advocates, medical professionals, and individuals impacted by EDS and HSD,” said Professor Lara Bloom, President and CEO of The Ehlers-Danlos Society. “The Global Learning Conference will foster collaboration, empower attendees and health professionals with knowledge, and promote a greater understanding of EDS and HSD, paving the way for improved patient care worldwide.”
The conference will feature a comprehensive program, including keynote presentations by esteemed specialists, and panel discussions on patient advocacy, research advancements, and quality-of-life improvements. Health professionals are encouraged to attend and can claim 19.5 Continuing Education credits for sessions attended live.
The theme of the conference is ‘Difficult Conversations in EDS and HSD’, covering topics that are often challenging for both patients and providers including neurodiversity, managing symptom flares, gastrointestinal issues, and effective communication for medical appointments.
Jane Green MBE, FCCT will present the connections between Autism, ADHD, and Dyspraxia, in the context of EDS and HSD, asking, “Can we unify and connect the dots? Health is a concept, as is equality and equity. The models (social, medical, biopsychosocial) are incomplete and needs a balancing, unifying model.”
In Ireland, recent prevalence studies suggest at least 6,250 people have a type of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome or hypermobility spectrum disorder.
“We hope The Ehlers-Danlos Society hosting their annual Global Learning conference in Ireland will demonstrate the prevalence of EDS and HSD in our country and help grow much-needed awareness of these life-altering, complex conditions.
“EDS and HSD need to be recognized here by both our government and the medical profession, and there is an urgent need for a multidisciplinary medical team for EDS and HSD patients,” said Anne Micks, Chair of Irish EDS and HSD, an Irish support organization.
The Ehlers-Danlos Society recognizes the lack of access to proper care and barriers to diagnosis that is experienced by those living with EDS and HSD in Ireland. The Global Learning Conference will facilitate a discussion for Irish community members, support groups, and healthcare professionals to better understand the unmet needs of those living in Ireland and how organizations can work collaboratively to improve this.
Registration for The Ehlers-Danlos Society Global Learning Conference is open for in person attendance at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Dublin Airport, and for virtual attendance. More information about the conference schedule and registration details can be found on The Ehlers-Danlos Society’s website here.
About The Ehlers-Danlos Society:
The Ehlers-Danlos Society is a global organization dedicated to advancing and accelerating research and education in Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) and hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD). We support the development of effective and equitable EDS and HSD therapies and work collaboratively to improve the lives of individuals affected by EDS and HSD.
About Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS):
The Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) are a group of 13 heritable connective tissue disorders. The conditions are caused by genetic changes that affect connective tissue. Each type of EDS has its own set of features with distinct diagnostic criteria. Some features are seen across all types of EDS, including joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility, and tissue fragility.
About Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD):
Hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD) are connective tissue disorders that cause joint hypermobility, instability, injury, and pain. HSD is diagnosed after other conditions, including the Ehlers-Danlos syndromes, have been excluded.
Other problems such as fatigue, headaches, GI problems, and autonomic dysfunction are often seen as part of EDS and HSD.
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