The Pernicious Anaemia Society is hosting a Conference that will be evaluating symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of Pernicious Anaemia.
A charity that is the only one of its kind in the world is hosting a conference to evaluate the way in which Pernicious Anaemia is diagnosed and treated. Chairman of the Society Martyn Hooper says that there are issues that need to be addressed in the way in which this disease is treated.
“We have members from all over the world – and we have common problems associated with the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of the disease.
“Using focus groups we now have a much more accurate set of symptoms which, if referred to by doctors, will allow a faster diagnosis which will hopefully prevent patients from developing permanent nerve damage” says the former lecturer.
The society has over 3,000 members since it introduced a membership scheme last March and it grows by over 100 per week.
“The most common cause of complaint by our members is that they are refused more frequent injections of B12 which is used to treat the disease. A great many of our members suffer unecessarily because doctors refuse to sanction more frequent injections than the normally prescribed three monthly dose. Some doctors are happy to allow more frequent injections but others refuse. Doctors are more willing to prescribe anti-depressents instead of a harmless vitamin” says Bethan Arrowsmith, the conference organiser.
The Conference will include papers by Dr. V. Devalia, Consultant Haematologist and Dr. J. Chandy, a G.P. who has conducted a twenty-five year study into the neuro-psychiatric effects of Pernicious Anaemia.
The conference will be held on 21st February at Bryngarw House, Bridgend. Further details from Bethan Arrowsmih on 01656 724163 – bethanpasoc
Pernicious Anaemia Society