Nationwide — The Sickle Cell Disease Association of America Inc., a national nonprofit organization that advocates for people affected by sickle cell disease, will hold its 54th annual national convention Thursday, Oct. 15, through Saturday, Oct. 17, at the Embassy Suites by Hilton in Concord, North Carolina. The three-day multidisciplinary convention — following the theme, “HOPE: An Era of Healing, Optimism, Perseverance and Excellence” — will address current treatments, clinical updates, and advances in sickle cell disease, drawing hundreds of healthcare professionals, researchers, patients, families, community-based organizations, leaders and advocates.
“We’re bringing together leaders in sickle cell disease research, clinical care, advocacy and community engagement to share knowledge, inspire action and drive progress for individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease,” said Regina Hartfield, president and CEO of the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America Inc. “As we embrace this year’s theme of hope, we look forward to fostering collaboration and empowering attendees with the latest information, resources and strategies to improve lives and take meaningful steps toward a universal cure.”
Convention speakers and presentations will include:
• Dr. Payal Desai, director of the Sickle Cell Disease Enterprise at Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute, will deliver the Charles F. Whitten, M.D., Memorial Lecture: “Bridging the Gap: Ensuring Lifelong Access to Excellence in Sickle Cell Care.”
• Dr. Adetola Kassim, professor of medicine in the division of hematology and oncology at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, will deliver the Kwaku Ohene-Frempong, M.D., Memorial Symposium: “Stroke Awareness Through the Lifespan.”
• Dr. Sophie Lanzkron, director of the division of hematology at Thomas Jefferson University, will deliver the Lennette Benjamin, M.D., Memorial Lecture: “Pain Management Redefined.”
• Dr. Isaac Odame, director of the hemoglobinopathy program at the Hospital for Sick Children, will deliver the Global Perspectives on Sickle Cell Disease Lecture: “Perspectives on Sickle Cell Disease in Sub-Saharan Africa.”
• Dr. Georges C. Benjamin, CEO of the American Public Health Association, will present a national advocacy update: “The Current State of Sickle Cell Disease in Today’s Federal Government.”
• Dr. Adetola Kassim, professor of medicine in the division of hematology and oncology at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, and Dr. Andrew Campbell, director of the Comprehensive Sickle Cell Disease Program at Children’s National, will lead the “Summit on Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapies: Where Are We Now?”
Additional convention events include exhibit hall presentations, advocacy lectures, educational workshops, medical reports, panel discussions, award presentations, social events, and an evening gala. Participants will have the opportunity to connect and interact with healthcare leaders and professionals and gain new relationships, knowledge, and resources.
Pfizer is the legacy sponsor of the national convention. Novo Nordisk is the visionary sponsor, and Agios is the diamond sponsor. To learn more and register, visit SickleCellDisease.org/annual-national-convention
Sickle cell disease is a rare inherited blood disease causing red blood cells to take a sickle shape, which leads to blockages that prevent blood from reaching parts of the body. As a result, people with sickle cell complications can experience anemia, jaundice, gallstones, stroke, chronic pain, organ damage, and premature death. No universal cure exists.
About
Sickle Cell Disease Association of America Inc. advocates for people affected by sickle cell conditions and empowers community-based organizations to maximize quality of life and raise public consciousness while advancing the search for a universal cure. The association and more than 55 member organizations support sickle cell research, public and professional health education, and patient and community services. Learn more at SickleCellDisease.org
For press inquiries, contact info@sicklecelldisease.org or (800) 421-8453