More than 350 international and regional rheumatology experts will discuss experiences and cutting-edge knowledge in the field of rheumatology and clinical immunology at an upcoming meeting in Abu Dhabi.

The third Abu Dhabi Advanced Rheumatology Review Course (ADARRC) will run from September 28 to 30 at Fairmont Bab Al Bahr.

The scientific educational event will also bring together 19 world experts and key opinion leaders as speakers.

In light of global advancements in rheumatism, the scientific and educational meeting will provide an engaging platform for participants to share their valuable clinical knowledge and their latest basic and clinical research findings in a review course.

It will cover multiple selected topics in experimental innovative therapies presented by international and regional key opinion leaders in rheumatology.

Dr Mustafa Al-Maini, MD, Msc FRCPC, chief of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology Division at Mafraq Hospital, is leading the efforts to organize the event, following its huge success since inception in 2011.

Speaking at a press conference today, Dr Al-Maini highlighted the significance of the review course in advancing healthcare standards in the region.

“There is steady progress in the field of rheumatology in the region and ADARRC will help further in developing networks amongst specialists to maintain clinical expertise, share recommendations on best practice and collaborate on research,” he said.

According to a report by Emirates Arthritis Foundation, arthritis affects 20 percent of the UAE population but only 6000 people have been officially diagnosed. It warns that rheumatoid arthritis can reduce life expectancy by three to 18 years.

“Within 20 years of diagnosis, 90 per cent of sufferers will be disabled,” it said.

“To aid in proper diagnosis and treatment of the disease in the Emirates, one of ADARRC’s key objective is to raise public awareness and improving specialists understanding of the condition”, Dr Al-Maini added. – TradeArabia News Service