Welcome Message

Dear Colleagues,

The next EULAR Annual European Congress of Rheumatology will be organised from 11 to 14 June 2008 in Paris. Since the introduction of annual EULAR congresses in 2000 these meetings have become the primary platform for  exchange of scientific and clinical information as well as a forum for interaction between patients, medical doctors, scientists, health professionals and professionals representing the pharmaceutical industry.

Over the years we have seen a steady increase in the number of participants and submitted abstracts. This growth reflects the increased interest in arthritis and musculoskeletal diseases seen in many societies. This can be attributed to recently achieved insight into the burden of these diseases for affected individuals and for society as well as to improved diagnostic and therapeutic tools available to health care professionals. In this respect the growing collaboration between patient organisations and health professionals in order to improve public awareness has contributed considerably.

The EULAR Congress 2008 in Paris will cover a wide range of topics on clinical innovations, clinical translational and basic science. In addition there will be meetings organised by people with arthritis, by health professionals and by the health care industry. The poster presentations, with their intense interactions between participants, are considered as the heart of the congress. In particular, with respect to the presentation of clinical research, the EULAR Congress has gained the reputation of being most innovative for the practising physician.

Paris in June is one of the most attractive travel destinations. The boulevards, parks, restaurants, museums, theatres will provide an excellent background to extend international collaboration, collegiality and friendships. The congress centre is located in the heart of the city. The weather at that time allows enjoying the city optimally. We are happy to welcome medical doctors, patients, health professionals and representatives of the pharmaceutical industry and hope that your stay in Paris will be both pleasant and educational.

FERDINAND C. BREEDVELD
President of EULAR

LIANA EULLER-ZIEGLER

President of the Local Organising Committee

Prof. Ferdinand C. Breedveld
President of EULAR

Prof. Liana Euller–Ziegler, France
President of the Local
Organising Committee