Paediatric Society of the African League against Rheumatism

Collaborate

Improving life for kids with RMDs through global virtual collaboration and brainstorming

Create

Driving global health interventions for children with RMDs through agency partnerships.

Inform

Update members of the association and others on current information about management of Paediatric RMDs.

Our Vision

Equal access to quality Paediatric rheumatology healthcare for children in Africa with Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases(RMDs) so that they may live, grow and thrive.

Mission

To improve the healthcare of children with Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases in Africa through raising awareness, advocacy, education, research, formulation and enactment of policies that promotes their growth, development, survival and overall well-being.

Who We Are.

The Paediatric Society of the African League Against Rheumatism is an association of healthcare professionals, allied healthcare workers, patient support groups and all relevant stakeholders involved in the care and management of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal diseases afflicting the children of Africa.

Vision.

Equal access to quality Paediatric rheumatology healthcare for children in Africa with Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases(RMDs) so that they may live, grow and thrive..

Collaborate

To collaborate with members through online meetings, conferences, seminars and workshops in order to have brainstorming sessions on improvement of quality of life of children with RMDs.

Create

To create and align with ground-breaking interventions that positively influence the health of children with RMDs through national and international agencies.

Inform

Update members of the association and others on current information about management of Paediatric RMDs.

5th PAFLAR Congress Welcome Message

Dear Friends and colleagues, On behalf of the Paediatric Society of the African League Against Rheumatism (PAFLAR), I am delighted to invite you to the 5th Hybrid PAFLAR Scientific Congress , scheduled for April 24th and 25th, 2025, at the Marriott Hotel in Lagos, Nigeria. PAFLAR is a non-governmental organization with a major goal of promoting paediatric rheumatology in Africa. Our primary mission is to foster a global environment where children diagnosed with paediatric rheumatic diseases enjoy equal and optimal opportunities for living, growing, and thriving, particularly in Africa. Our vision is to achieve these goals by implementing impactful strategies and programs that enhance the well-being of African children with rheumatic diseases. This involves actively advocating for and implementing policies, conducting research initiatives, and delivering education programs specifically tailored to meet the distinctive needs of the African continent.
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Building upon the success of past editions, the scientific committee has meticulously developed an inclusive scientific program that delves into the primary and current topics in Paediatric rheumatology. Our theme for this congress “Paediatric Rheumatology in Africa: Bridging Gaps in Care and Building Resilient Teams” addresses the need for equity in paediatric rheumatology care globally, advocacy, and collaboration among healthcare workers in managing paediatric rheumatic diseases. Additionally, various opportunities have been tailored for the PAFLAR Community to actively participate in networking, idea sharing and fostering connections with new and familiar colleagues. This occasion is an outstanding platform to forge relationships with influential persons in the global paediatric rheumatology field, featuring distinguished speakers and experts from around the globe.
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Nigeria is a key regional player in West Africa, often called the “Giant of Africa”. It is the most populated country in Africa with over 200 million people. Lagos, where the congress will be held, is however the most populated city in Nigeria with over 20 million people. It is the economic hub of Nigeria. The city has a significant influence on commerce, entertainment, technology, education, politics, tourism, art, and fashion in Africa. On behalf of PAFLAR, I am pleased to invite everyone worldwide to register and plan to attend this stimulating and collaborative congress where you will feel free to learn and network with friends. See you in Lagos.

What are Rheumatic Diseases?

When you hear the word "rheumatism", you may think of the aches and pains associated with arthritis. However, rheumatic diseases are much more than this. Many rheumatic diseases are often more aggressive among children compared to adults. Furthermore, children often are not able to explain accurately their symptoms as adults do. This contributes to delayed diagnosis that may result in chronic pain, disability and even death.