The 16th Annual ICORD Meeting Successfully Held in Buenos Aires
The 16th Annual ICORD Meeting, dedicated to advancing knowledge and fostering international collaboration in the field of rare diseases, was successfully held in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on 24–25 July 2024. The conference brought together esteemed professionals, researchers, and stakeholders from across the globe who engaged in in-depth discussions and shared insights into emerging trends, challenges, and innovative approaches to the diagnosis, management, and treatment of rare diseases.
The academic program included 12 thematic sessions and 49 abstracts that together include just over 100 authors and co-authors. The congress admitted some online sessions. Of special interest to the region were the NIH’s undiagnosed diseases program, the Gene editing clinical trials, the international initiatives of IRDiRC, the “Pluto” program for ultra-rare conditions and those of unique patients (leaving no one behind). ). Rare disease prevention strategies and the WHO “One Health” program. The particularities and initiatives for rare diseases in countries as different as India, Colombia, Bulgaria, Ecuador. Models of care in Catalonia. Educational models in Argentina and those of RIBERSER. Examples presented by patients of resilience and positive actions for specific conditions. In the poster presentations, the ideas of local scientists predominated to generate therapeutic options for different rare diseases. All this material is planned to be published soon in an international magazine.
The presence of the highest national authorities in the field of scientific research and education (CONICeT, UBA) was very important. The Faculty was motivated to continue with education in this field of health, and the scientific system analyzes possibilities of international collaboration with rare diseases. Journalistic media covered the event through programs in various media attracting patients and patient organizations. The local organization CERyDH felt supported to continue with events in 2025. True to its antecedents, ICORD functioned as a catalyst for initiatives, empowering local actors.
The event served as a valuable platform for multidisciplinary dialogue and contributed to the ongoing global effort to improve care for individuals living with rare conditions. We extend our gratitude to all participants for their contributions to the continued advancement of rare disease research and policy.