Congenital Disorders of Glycosylation Congress

The Portuguese Association for CDG and other Rare Metabolic Diseases (APCDG-DMR) in association with CDG & Allies Professionals and Patient Associations International Research Network (CDG & Allies - PPAIN) will organize from 13 to 16 of may 2021 the  5.^th World Conference on Congenital Disorders of Glycosylation (CDG), for the first time, on an hybrid formula: virtual and face-to-face. The initiative will count with the participation of about 120 international speakers from all around the globe.

"Although it is very unlikely that we would be able to meet in person, due to the continuing uncertainties surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic, we are planning a hybrid Congress. In this way, the online option ensures access, equity and inclusion for all participants.” affirms Vanessa Ferreira, founder of APCDG and co-founder and investigator of the research network CDG & Allies - PPAIN.

The event aims to identify main needs and challenges that CDG families and professionals face during the journey. It is also intended to inform about the latest research innovations in this area in order to provide solutions adapted to each patient.

"We are deeply grateful to all volunteers who are currently involved in ensuring the important activities related to this event. In particular, we would like to thank the volunteers of the NOVA Sci & Tech Volunteer Program who are creating many awareness and education resources that will be launched for the first time during the Congress.", affirms Sandra Brasil (investigator of CDG & Allies - PPAIN and APCDG volunteer).  

In addition, "Andrea Miller from CDG CARE (USA) gave a huge help in setting the agenda, the CDG & Allies - PPAIN team ensures relevant logistical and organizational operations and José Graça provides Informatic support. Everyone has been fundamental in making the event a success.", adds Carlota Pascoal (investigator of CDG & Allies - PPAIN and APCDG volunteer). 

The biannual Congress will have some news, such as the “Think Metabolic, Think CDG Academy” program which aims to provide knowledge and skills so that the participants become specialists in research and development of therapies in CDG. Along these lines and in order to ensure an active participation in the conference, the participants can achieve the "CDG Expert Level 2" by the  “Think Metabolic, Think CDG Academy”.

“Every two years, 450 families and professionals from all over the world gather at our Congress to learn the latest advances dedicated to the world of CDG. It is the opportunity for many families to have direct contact with others who fight daily for a better quality of life for these children and adults. This event also symbolizes support, strength, hope and friendship. ”, Concludes Paula Videira (co-founder and researcher at the CDG & Allies PPAIN network). As already mentioned, around 120 speakers will participate in the initiative: families, patient associations, researchers, doctors, pharmaceutical companies and specialists in rare diseases, coming from 25 different countries.

Abstract submission requires prior registration, which runs from March 1 to April 1, 2021. For more information and registration, see:  https://worldcdg.org/world-conference-cdg    

You can also consult the program at: https://worldcdg.org/world-conference-cdg/program