2009 Annual Scientific Conference Photos
November 19-21
Vancouver, B.C.

In November 2009, more than 300 arthritis stakeholders descended on Vancouver, British Columbia, to participate in the Canadian Arthritis Network's (CAN) Annual Scientific Conference (ASC). The buzz among CAN members was that this was the best ASC to date, probably in large part because of its successful balancing of basic and clinical science, while also including consumer, industry and government perspectives.

Outside of the scientific program, there were ample networking opportunities, including a boat cruise for trainees and a dinner at the Vancouver Art Gallery. Other highlights included a slew of awards, a public forum and the ever popular gala dinner. Keynote speaker, Dr. Paul Hébert, Champion for CIHR's National Strategy on Patient-Oriented Research Initiative delivered a controversial presentation that will be remembered for years to come.

The theme of the conference was Decoding Arthritis: A Joint Effort and the symposia supported that theme with session topics like Cartilage Repair: Translation into Clinical Practice; Genetic Discoveries that will Change the way we Manage Inflammatory Autoimmune Diseases; and, Pain Research - Where are We Now?

The program also included a look at maximizing research networks that featured SPARCC, IPART, CSRG, CATCH, CaNIOS, CRRC, CAPRI and CAN's Consumer Advisory Council. A new twist this year, as a way to deliver information while providing a prime networking opportunity, was a 'speed dating' session where attendees had the chance to speak more intimately with representatives from various CAN committees and initiatives, and partner organizations.