Zoe Karakikla-MitsakouWe are thrilled to share some exciting news from the recent GlobalSkin ELEVATE Conference in Brussels, where Annemarie Sluijmers, Vice Chair and Secretary of Lupus Europe, was honoured with the prestigious GlobalSkin Patient Leaders Award. The conference, held from June 1 to 4, brought together experts, researchers, and patient advocates from the field of dermatology to discuss and strengthen connections across world regions and disease areas. During this event, Annemarie received the Collaborator Award for her outstanding contributions to the GlobalSkin Europe Community. Let’s take a closer look at Annemarie’s work with GlobalSkin and at how Lupus Europe is making a difference in raising awareness for skin-related issues in Lupus.
Lupus Europe has been collaborating with the GlobalSkin community, the International Alliance of Dermatologic Patient Organisations (IADPO). IADPO has many members, the majority of whom are patient organisations in Europe. IADPO’s focus is on skin-related conditions, on uniting the voices of European Rare Skin Patients and on advocating for medical dermatology to be prioritised on the European policy agenda.
Photo from GlobalSkin ELEVATE Conference; you can find it: https://www.flickr.com/photos/iadpo/albums
Annemarie Sluijmers plays a pivotal role in this collaboration between Lupus Europe and IADPO. Annemarie is a Vice Chair and Secretary of Lupus Europe and she is also a member of the Advisory Committee of GlobalSkin-Europe. This platform brings together patient advocates, dermatologists, and policymakers to work towards common goals. Additionally, Annemarie is also a member of the Advisory Committee of RareDERM and the Steering Committee of the World Skin Health Coalition.
Highlights from the ELEVATE Conference:
- The ELEVATE 2023 conference offered valuable insights into various aspects of dermatology, research, and advocacy. Here are some key takeaways:
- The Importance of Data: Experts emphasised the significance of global data for (rare) skin diseases, requiring unique codes compatible with different IT systems.
Photo from GlobalSkin ELEVATE Conference; you can find it: https://www.flickr.com/photos/iadpo/albums
- AI and Non-Invasive Imaging: AI technology has potential applications beyond primary care skin cancer, offering non-invasive imaging for various dermatological conditions.
- LC-OCT: Line-field confocal optical coherence could be a promising alternative to skin biopsies.
- Personalised Medicine: The conference highlighted the importance of personalised medicine, including the sterilisation and re-use of single-use instruments and using medications beyond their expiration date.
Recognising Outstanding Contributions:
During the ELEVATE Conference, Lupus Europe’s very own Annemarie Sluijmers received the Collaborator Award for her dedication to the GlobalSkin Europe Community.
Photo from GlobalSkin ELEVATE Conference; you can find it:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/iadpo/albums
This was said about her: “Annemarie is Board Member of Lupus Europe. She is a devoted patient advocate and a committed supporter of the GlobalSkin Europe activities. She consistently provides insights and share ideas, precious for the whole community. I must also stress that she is a diligent Eupati fellow. Annemarie is very active not only at the national, but also at the European level.”
GRIDD Study:
If you have skin lupus or involvement of the skin while having SLE, do participate in the GRIDD study survey. You can find the GRIDD study survey at the following link: https://www.my.crf.one/en/Public/RegisterSurvey/279e953a-b9be-4b2c-9b5c-f1e32a25bb59
Your input will contribute to furthering the understanding of these conditions and their true impact. Collaboration and data play crucial roles in improving the lives of those affected by skin diseases
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