Ahmedabad: Marking Rheumatology Awareness Month, the Vasculitis Society of India, in collaboration with the Rheumatology Association of Gujarat (RAG), launched the Vasculitis Patient Support Group in Ahmedabad on Saturday. The initiative aims to support patients affected by vasculitis, a rare group of autoimmune disorders that cause inflammation of blood vessels.
The newly formed support group is designed to provide education, guidance, and reliable information to patients and caregivers, helping improve quality of life and disease management. Originally established in Punjab, the Vasculitis Society is now expanding its outreach across India to build stronger patient communities.
In a message shared on the occasion, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel congratulated the Indian Rheumatology Association (IRA), RAG, and the Vasculitis Society of India for the initiative, highlighting the importance of awareness-driven healthcare programs.
Vasculitis remains a complex and often underdiagnosed condition due to its diverse symptoms and resemblance to diseases such as infections or tuberculosis. It can impact multiple organs, including the skin, kidneys, lungs, and brain, often leading to delayed diagnosis and serious complications.
Medical experts highlighted the broader challenges, including limited access to advanced diagnostic tests and high treatment costs involving immunosuppressants and biologics. Despite being individually rare, vasculitis disorders collectively affect a significant number of patients in India, often leading to preventable disability if not diagnosed early.
Dr. Aman Sharma, President of the Indian Rheumatology Association, emphasised the need for increased awareness and better access to specialised care across the country. Meanwhile, Dr. Sapan Pandya and Dr. Reena Sharma highlighted the importance of community support, early diagnosis, and patient education in improving outcomes.
The launch event also featured participation from leading rheumatologists and included academic activities such as clinical rounds and awareness sessions. As part of Rheumatology Awareness Month, upcoming initiatives include a CME program for medical students and a Rheumatology Awareness Walkathon scheduled at Ahmedabad Riverfront on April 26.