On behalf of EXCEMED, it is our pleasure to welcome you to the 2014 annual conference: “Multiple sclerosis: improving patient outcomes through scientific and clinical advances”. At this meeting, leading international experts will share cutting-edge research on the roles of genetics and the environment in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS), and discuss how best to incorporate our knowledge within a patient-centred approach to clinical management. You will also have the opportunity to earn CME credits.
This live educational conference will consist of three plenary sessions, along with three workshop sessions and a roundtable session. Session I will cover the latest epidemiological and genetic findings, and give an update on our understanding of MS pathogenesis. In Session II you will hear presentations on how patients at risk of poor prognosis can be identified and managed, as well as the importance of defining, predicting and optimizing treatment response. In the third plenary session, experts will debate on the optimal timing of MS treatment initiation, and how we should best monitor and assess treatment response. The workshop sessions will be your opportunity to learn about key aspects of managing the care of people with MS in a more informal setting. In addition, you will hear a roundtable discussion on patients’ perception and reported outcomes with a panel of experts.
The aims of the 2014 annual conference are to explain the role of genetic susceptibility and environment in MS pathogenesis, and to enable selection of the most suitable treatment on the basis of the phase of the disease and the need of the individual patient. This highly interactive programme will provide up-to-date information for clinicians on current research as well as practical advice on patient- centred management. We hope that you will be able to join us and take part in what we anticipate will be engaging and lively discussions.
Yours sincerely
David Bates
Scientific organiser
Newcastle upon Tyne, UK