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Initiated by the International Pediatric MS Study Group (IPMSSG), the first International Pediatric Planning Symposium took place in Toronto, Canada from 3 to 4 April 2009.
Some 50 participants met to develop two international research proposals to increase knowledge about, and understanding of, MS in children. One project will aim to collect data from all around the world, the other will study environmental contributions to MS in children. The aim is to improve the treatment of children with MS and to bring us closer to the factors that cause MS. Research proposals should be finalised in September so that they can be submitted for funding to governmental and non-governmental funders, including MS societies.
Delegates, including child neurologists and other health professionals as well as representatives from the supporting MS societies, came from all continents. For many it was their first opportunity to meet face to face.
The event was supported by the Government of Ontario, and by MSIF and its Danish, Italian and US member societies. The MS Society of Canada played an essential role in co-hosting the symposium. MSIF sees its support for the IPMSSG as an important part of its strategy to facilitate international collaboration in research and was well-represented at the meeting by Dhia Chandraratna, MSIF International Medical and Scientific Research Officer, Professor Alan Thompson, Chairman of the MSIF International Medical and Scientific Board (IMSB), and Peer Baneke, CEO. More information about the IPMSSG can be found at www.ipmssg.org.
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