ASIF Showcases LAMAS Report at 28th PANLAR Congress in Panama

ASIF was proud to launch its landmark LAMAS report at 28th PANLAR Congress, held in Panama City from 27–30 April.

The LAMAS report presents findings from the Latin American component of the International Map of Axial Spondyloarthritis (IMAS) where the study was conducted in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico. The report provides critical insights into the patient experience, healthcare utilisation, and unmet needs across the region.

The publication is strengthened by a foreword written by the PANLAR President and President-elect, who both noted the importance of collaborative regional efforts to improve outcomes for people living with axSpA.

Julieth Buitrago, ASIF Trustee and Fundación de Espondilitis Anquilosante en Colombia, and Marco Garrido Cumbrera from CEADE in Spain and LAMAS’ principal investigator introduced ASIF’s work and provided an overview of axSpA at the patient congress.

They highlighted key findings and recommendations from the LAMAS report, encouraging attendees to actively support its dissemination and use it as a tool for advocacy. The session emphasised the importance of raising awareness of axSpA and mobilising the community to drive change. The World AS Day campaign was also featured as a practical way for individuals to engage and amplify awareness efforts.

ASIF was well represented in the scientific programme, with Dr Wilson Bautista moderating a dedicated session focused on the LAMAS findings and axSpA research in Latin America. During this session, Dr Fernando Sommerfleck presented the LAMAS data within the broader context of regional research on axSpA, highlighting how the findings align with and enrich existing evidence. Marco complemented this by providing a global perspective, comparing Latin American data with findings from other regions and exploring the economic implications of axSpA. Together, these presentations reinforced the importance of robust data in shaping clinical practice and health policy, while demonstrating how regional insights can contribute to the global understanding of axSpA.

At the ASIF booth, a dedicated banner showcased key findings from the LAMAS report, drawing attention from delegates and sparking valuable conversations about how the data can help inform better care and policy.

Throughout the congress, the ASIF team connected with attendees, providing copies of the LAMAS report in Spanish, Portuguese and English. ASIF also promoted its World AS Day campaign, distributing orange shoelaces as part of the Lace Up For AxSpA awareness raising initiative.

ASIF’s participation in the 28th PANLAR Congress marked a significant step forward in strengthening collaboration across Latin America. By launching the LAMAS report, engaging with the community, and contributing to both patient and scientific discussions, ASIF continues to drive its mission of improving the lives of people living with axSpA worldwide. The momentum generated in Panama will support ongoing efforts to raise awareness, improve diagnosis and care, and ensure that the voices of people with axSpA are heard across the region and beyond.

Read LAMAS Report

ASIF Showcases LAMAS Report at 28th PANLAR Congress in Panama

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