-- The Spondylitis Association of America (SAA) announces its 7th Annual Global Spondyloarthritis Summit, taking place virtually on May 2-3, 2025. This cornerstone event coincides with Spondyloarthritis Awareness Month, highlighting the organization’s ongoing commitment to education, advocacy, and support for the more than 3.2 million Americans affected by spondyloarthritis (SpA) conditions.
Spondyloarthritis represents a family of inflammatory rheumatic diseases that primarily affect the spine, sacroiliac joints, and peripheral joints. Despite impacting more people than Rheumatoid Arthritis, Multiple Sclerosis, and ALS combined, SpA remains under-recognized in public health discourse.
The two-day virtual summit will feature presentations from world-renowned rheumatology experts covering essential topics, including disease classifications and treatment options, as well as specialized areas such as the connections between SpA and cardiovascular disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and mental health.
“Spondyloarthritis Awareness Month provides a powerful opportunity to amplify voices within our community and draw attention to conditions that too often remain in the shadows,” said Jason Blackwell, Director of Brand Experience and Public Affairs at SAA. “The 7th Global SpA Summit stands as our most comprehensive educational program, bringing together patients, caregivers, and medical experts to share knowledge that can genuinely improve lives.”
Notable speakers include Dr. Mohammad Bittar, delivering a comprehensive overview of spondyloarthritis; Dr. Philip Mease, discussing pain and fatigue management; Dr. James Rosenbaum, exploring the connection between uveitis and SpA; and Dr. Raj Sengupta, presenting the latest advancements in spondyloarthritis research. Movement sessions led by Yoga for AS experts and somatic exercises guided by Ian Young will offer participants practical strategies for managing symptoms through gentle physical activity.
The program addresses the diverse manifestations of SpA, with specialized sessions on axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), ankylosing spondylitis (AS), psoriatic arthritis, and related conditions. Dr. Simon Hong will examine the link between inflammatory bowel disease and SpA, while Dr. Nadia Malliou will highlight mental health challenges faced by patients.
SAA’s commitment to serving the entire spondyloarthritis community reflects its evolution since its founding in 1983. The organization adopted the tagline “Serving the Spondyloarthritis Community” in 2023 to represent its inclusive scope and mission better.
May has been designated as Spondyloarthritis Awareness Month to spotlight conditions that primarily emerge between the ages of 17 and 45. Unlike mechanical back pain, the pain and stiffness associated with axial spondyloarthritis typically improve with movement and worsen with rest —a distinguishing characteristic that many patients and healthcare providers fail to recognize, often leading to delayed diagnosis.
The summit aims to bridge knowledge gaps for both newly diagnosed individuals and those who have lived with SpA for years. Interactive elements include live Q&A sessions with experts, enabling direct engagement with leading specialists in the field.
“When we connect patients with information and resources, we give them tools to advocate for themselves and others,” Blackwell added. “The Global SpA Summit has grown into a vital platform that serves thousands worldwide, creating a space where scientific knowledge meets lived experience.”
Health equity remains a central focus for SAA, with recent initiatives addressing barriers to adequate healthcare, particularly for communities of color and underrepresented populations. The organization has expanded its Spanish-language resources and outreach efforts to serve diverse communities better.
Registration for the 7th Annual Global Spondyloarthritis Summit is now open to participants worldwide at no cost. The virtual format removes geographical barriers, making specialized knowledge accessible to anyone with an internet connection. Last year’s summit drew participants from over 88 countries, underscoring the event's global reach.
SAA’s advocacy efforts extend beyond educational programming to include public policy initiatives that directly impact people living with spondyloarthritis. The organization works to increase research funding, improve healthcare access, and raise public awareness about SpA conditions throughout the year.
The summit is made possible through the support of individual donors, corporate members like UCB, and industry partners who are committed to advancing care for people with spondyloarthritis.
About the Spondylitis Association of America
Since its founding in 1983, the Spondylitis Association of America has been the leading national nonprofit providing educational resources, connections, and the critical emotional support that people living with spondyloarthritis need. SAA is committed to increasing awareness of spondyloarthritis, providing information and support to patients and their families, and funding research to uncover a cure for the disease.
Contact Info:
Name: Jason Blackwell, Director, Brand Experience & Public Affairs
Email: Send Email
Organization: Spondylitis Association of America
Address: Encino, California, USA 91436
Website: https://spondylitis.org/
Release ID: 89159415
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