SAHF MASAC Educational Symposium 2024 – Day 1 Recap: A Full House and A Celebratory Milestone
Johannesburg, South Africa – The 30th annual SAHF MASAC Educational Symposium kicked off with an extraordinary first day, marking a significant milestone in the history of haemophilia care in South Africa. With a record-breaking number of attendees from across the country and beyond, it was a full house at the Protea Hotel by Marriott OR Tambo. The theme of this year’s symposium, “A Return to Patient-Centered Care,” resonated deeply as experts, advocates, and healthcare professionals gathered to explore advancements and collaborate on the future of care.
Celebrating 30 Years of Impact
This year’s symposium is not just another conference—it’s a celebration of 30 years of MASAC’s commitment to improving the lives of people with haemophilia. Since its establishment in 1995, MASAC has been a driving force in transforming haemophilia care in South Africa and fostering collaboration across the continent. Reflecting on this journey, SAHF Chairperson Clerment Sefojane shared, “Today, we honor our legacy and look forward to a future filled with new possibilities. The progress we’ve made over three decades is a testament to the power of collaboration.”
Day 1 of SAHF MASAC Educational Symposium 2024
Dr Lariska Haupt of the University of Free State and Universitas Academic Hospital
The day began with an enthusiastic welcome from SAHF and MASAC leaders, setting the tone for a dynamic lineup of sessions and speakers.
This opening session featured thought-provoking talks on novel therapies and personalised care. Highlights included Brian O’Mahony’s virtual presentation on returning to person-centered care and Dr. Simone Rayner’s deeply personal story as a woman living with haemophilia inspired attendees, highlighting the unique challenges faced by women in accessing diagnosis and care. The session concluded with actionable strategies to address these gaps and empower women in the community. Simone focused on an often-overlooked population: women and girls with bleeding disorders.
Prof. Alok Srivastava and Nolene Chetty took the stage to address critical issues in diagnosis. Prof. Srivastava shared pragmatic approaches to diagnosing haemophilia in resource-constrained environments, while Chetty presented the current landscape of genetic testing shaping diagnostics in South Africa. Their insights underscored the importance of accessible and locally relevant solutions.
Nicole Green captivated the audience with her talk on the role of imaging in musculoskeletal assessment. Her presentation showcased how early detection through tools like ultrasound and MRI can prevent long-term joint damage. Brendan Fredericks followed with practical insights into the role of physiotherapy in preserving mobility for haemophilia patients.
