On September 30 and October 1, the Immuniverse Annual Progress Meeting took place in Frankurt, Germany. The event marked a significant moment for the Immuniverse project, where EFA brought the perspective of patients living with atopic eczema to the forefront of discussions on research and innovation.
Immuniverse project: what is it about?
The Immuniverse project, funded by the former Innovative Medicines Initiative (IMI), unites more than 20 partners with the shared goal of improving diagnostic and therapeutic options for patients facing these chronic conditions. By collaborating across various organisations, including EFA and EFCCA (the European Federation of Crohn’s & Ulcerative Colitis Associations), the project aims to transform the landscape of care for those affected by atopic eczema and ulcerative colitis.
EFA’s role in patient involvement
As part of this collaborative consortium, EFA is coordinating and facilitating, the involvement of patients in research through the Patient Input Platform (PIP). The platform consists of 15 patients living with ulcerative colitis and atopic eczema, including members of EFA’s Atopic Eczema Working Group. Their insights and feedback are essential in ensuring that the research is truly patient-centered and addresses the real needs of those affected by atopic eczema and ulcerative colitis.
During the Annual Progress Meeting, consortium members presented the advancement of the study, defining the strategy and roadmaps for the upcoming months of research. EFA emphasised the invaluable contributions from the PIP, highlighting the need of meaningful patient involvement in the research process. This was echoed by all consortium members, who are committed to regularly incorporating patient input to achieve the project's ultimate goal: enhancing the quality of life for patients living with atopic eczema and ulcerative colitis.
The discussions in Frankfurt not only highlighted the progress made but also reinforced a collective commitment to ensuring that patients' voices are crucial in shaping future treatments and care strategies. As we move forward, EFA remains committed to fostering this collaboration, ensuring that the needs and experiences of patients are at the heart of research efforts, driving meaningful change in the care and support they receive.
More information on EFA’s work with the Immuniverse project can be found here.