EOS Network at BSACI 2024: Advancing Holistic EAD Awareness and Care This October, EOS Network proudly participated in the British Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (BSACI) Conference in Harrogate. The four-day event brought together nearly 800 professionals across the UK and internationally, fostering rich discussions on allergy research, clinical practice, and patient care. The program featured a variety of topics and sessions, including the President’s Plenary on big data and AI in allergy care, industry symposia, oral abstract sessions, and a forward-looking panel, “History and the Future of Allergy.” Key Achievements at BSACI 2024 Emerging Trends in Multidisciplinary Care for Eosinophilic-Associated Diseases The BSACI 2024 conference showcased an encouraging shift towards a more comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to Eosinophilic-Associated Diseases (EADs). Professionals from various new hospitals and specialities, including respiratory, dermatology, allergy, and immunology, as well as both adult and paediatric trainees, engaged with us to deepen their knowledge and establish collaborative connections. This broad interest underscores a growing recognition of the necessity for a holistic approach to managing EADs, which are complex, multisystem conditions. At EOS Network, we align our mission with these evolving trends and community needs. EOS Network's mission is to ensure that every person with an Eosinophilic-Associated Disease receives a prompt, accurate diagnosis, cohesive medical care, and support to live with their condition. We were pleased to see dedicated sessions on Eosinophilic Oesophagitis (EoE) and related Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Diseases (EGIDS), including topics such as early diagnosis, management, diet therapy, and treatment outcomes for EoE, addressing patient phenotypes, treatment responses, post-elimination diet food sensitisations, and idiopathic Hypereosinophilic Syndrome (HES) case rounds. The conference further highlighted a cohesive effort within the international medical community to link associated and comorbid diseases and underlying factors, including mast cells and eosinophils, gut and brain connections, and enhanced diagnostic and treatment pathways. Multi-system Allergy (MSA) and Biological Therapies Amanda Cordell, CEO&Founder EOS Network I am delighted to see the multidisciplinary support for this very important topic, with a lecture hall full of paediatric and adult care clinicians supporting this new way of thinking. Cohesive, collaborative care and treatments are vital for improving patient outcomes and reducing the clinical and patient burden and are the future of multi-system allergy (MSA).We are advocating for this change and supporting patients and their healthcare professionals in this journey. A dedicated session brought the subjects together in a panel discussion on multi-system allergic diseases (MSA) with an eosinophilic-associated disease case study example, underscoring the value of coordinated, multidisciplinary care. Led by specialists including Ed Gaynor (Paediatric Gastroenterologist), Leanne Goh (Paediatric Allergist), Matthew Doyle (Primary Care Physician with a focus on allergy), and Carsten Flohr (Professor of Dermatology), the discussion emphasised the growing importance of holistic, collaborative patient management for improving patient outcomes and reducing the patient and clinical burden for. Professor Flohr's LinkedIn comments captured this emerging trend, emphasising the need for a multi-professional approach to support patients with MSA: Carsten Flohr, Professor of Dermatology and Population Health Science at King's College London: My key take-home messages from the BSACI 2024 Conference are: It is important to recognize multi-system allergic disease (MSA) as an entity and its high burden on patients. Multi-professional working is key to recognizing and managing MSA, especially as we now have systemic medications available that fortuitously treat several diseases together, e.g. dupilumab being efficacious in atopic dermatitis, eosinophilic oesophagitis and asthma. There is a need for a supra-regional MDT to discuss these complex patients and support each other in clinical decision-making, as treatment changes typically affect several diseases at the same time. A Growing Multi-Disciplinary Professional Network Throughout the conference, we had the privilege of connecting with more than 200 dedicated professionals, including clinicians, non-profits, and industry representatives. It was inspiring to see so many experts - from young trainees to seasoned professionals - who are passionate about making a difference in this field of EADs. We were thrilled to distribute over 100 information packs and business cards to attendees eager to learn more about EADs. During these four days, we welcomed 27 healthcare professionals registered with us, expanding our Network to more than 500 professionals across 49 countries! Together, we are building a global movement dedicated to advancing EAD awareness, research, and treatment. EOS Network Team connecting with healthcare professionals during the BSACI Conference 2024 Community Meet-up Highlights After one of the long working days, we didn't miss the opportunity to meet with our community members in person for the first time. Special thanks to Helen and Fergus for coming to meet us! Fergus, who lives with EGIDs and severe immediate allergies, shared his powerful story. His journey sheds light on the challenges faced by those with EGIDs, especially when it comes to something as simple as eating out. We are excited to share more about Fergus’ story - stay tuned to our social media for updates! Fergus and Helen in branded "Unity Slogans" T-shirts About BSACI BSACI is a professional organisation in the UK dedicated to improving allergy care, providing allergy resources to its members, including clinical guidelines and organising educational meetings. Founded in 1948, BSACI brings together clinicians, scientists, allied health professionals, patient charities, and the industry to advance research, education, and clinical practice in allergy and immunology. The society provides guidelines, hosts conferences, and offers training opportunities to support its members and enhance patient care. Understanding EADs EADs, or Eosinophil-Associated Diseases, are a group of diseases characterised by elevated levels of eosinophils—a type of white blood cell involved in immune responses and inflammation. These diseases can affect various organs, including the skin, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract, leading to conditions such as Eosinophilic Oesophagitis (EoE), Eosinophilic Asthma (EA), and Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Diseases (EGIDS). Raising awareness about these conditions is crucial as they are frequently underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed due to their rarity. Why EAD Education is Vital Educating healthcare professionals about EADs is critical for improving early diagnosis and treatment options. EOS Network aims to ensure more comprehensive care for those living with EADs by increasing awareness and fostering collaboration between clinicians and patient communities. The BSACI Conference provided a platform to bridge these knowledge gaps and inspire action. How You Can Help Us Make a Difference We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has joined us in raising awareness and educating others about EADs. Many patients have found it helpful to refer their GPs and specialists to our website, encouraging them to register and stay informed. Knowing that your healthcare provider takes a proactive approach in staying updated on the latest EAD research and guidelines brings peace of mind and ensures you receive the best possible care. Join our Network Related publications: Access to Dupixent (Dupilumab) Treatment in the UK Explained Our Impact Other latest events EOS Network attended: ESPGHAN 2024 BSPGHAN 2023 BSACI 2023 BSACI 2022 Manage Cookie Preferences