In a unique initiative, hepatitis C self-help groups have joined with health experts here in organising an international conference on the latest developments in coping with and managing the disease.
The two-day conference, which begins in Trinity College Dublin today, will showcase research from some of the world's leading experts in hepatitis C. They include Dr Jay Hoofnagle, of the US National Institute of Health, as well as speakers from France and the UK. Experts from the Republic will also contribute.
A number of speakers will share their experience of living with hepatitis C, including Ms Paula Kealy, of Positive Action, and Mr Michael Madigan, of Transfusion Positive.
Several speakers will address both the professional and lay programme. Commenting on this aspect of the meeting, Prof Cliona O'Farrelly, director of research laboratories at St Vincent's University Hospital, said: "This twin-track conference is a product of a partnership between academics and patient groups. International figures will speak about cutting-edge research and in parallel sessions others who are experts in their field will present the same information in non-specialist language."
Ms Josephine Mahony, chairperson of Positive Action and a member of the Consultative Council on hepatitis C, told The Irish Times that it had been a long-held dream to have a conference with a twin-track approach. In a reference to the way members of Positive Action contracted the disease, she said: "There is a lot to be learned from people such as ourselves who are unique globally. It is an opportunity to see what the hepatitis C virus can do on its own without the presence of co-factors."
The international conference has been organised by the Consultative Council on hepatitis C, the statutory body which advises the Minister for Health on all aspects relating to hepatitis C. Its chairperson, Dr Ruth Barrington, described the gathering as one which would have a "broad appeal" and would be a "source of exciting new ideas and insights into hepatitis C, its treatment and prevention".