October 8, 2024

World Immunology Day

On August 17-18, 2024, Ms Otilia Stanga, IPOPI’s Board Member and Treasurer, participated in a significant event at the Advanced Paediatric Centre of the Post Graduate Institute for Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh, India, focused on primary immunodeficiency diseases (PIDs).

The first day of the event featured a dedicated session for nurses, concentrating on the essential role nurses play in the care of patients with PIDs. Ms Otilia Stanga shared her unique insights in a talk titled, “Understanding Primary Immunodeficiencies – Expectations and Care for Patients.” Drawing from her multifaceted experience as a patient representative, nurse, and mother of a child with PID, she emphasized the critical intersection of patient advocacy and clinical care. At the same time, a programme for physicians was conducted, and Professor Surjit Singh, Dr Deepti Suri, Dr Vignesh Pandiarajan, and their team welcomed attendees. A notable highlight of this session was the presence of Professor Yae-Jean Kim from the Samsung Medical Centre in Seoul, South Korea, who added her global perspective on the challenges and advancements in PID care.

The second day was dedicated to the Patient Awareness Programme, which aimed to bridge the gap between medical professionals and the PID patient community. Ms. Stanga’s presentation centred on the “6 Principles of Care” and the “PID Life Index,” a tool designed to assess the quality of life for PID patients. She underscored the vital role of comprehensive and accessible care in improving patient outcomes and quality of life. The day was filled with inspiring moments, as patients and their families shared their journeys, highlighting the real-world impact of the efforts being made to improve PID care.

The event was not just an educational exchange but a heartfelt celebration of community and commitment. It brought together healthcare professionals, nurses, patients, and advocates, all united by the common goal of advancing the care and well-being of those living with primary immunodeficiencies. The connections made and the stories shared during these two days left a lasting impression, reminding everyone of the importance of collaboration in supporting the PID community.

World Immunology Day in Chandigarh was a resounding success, a testament to the power of shared knowledge and the unwavering dedication of the global PID community.