TOWSON, Md., April 1, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- The Immune Deficiency Foundation (IDF), in collaboration with the Clinical Immunology Society (CIS), support the significance of National Primary Immunodeficiency Awareness Month in April and World PI Week (April 22 -29, 2016). Primary immunodeficiency diseases, or PI, are a group of more than 250 rare, chronic disorders in which part of the body's immune system is missing or does not function properly. People with PI can face frequent health problems and often develop serious and debilitating illnesses.
"While approximately 250,000 people have been diagnosed with a primary immunodeficiency in the U.S., thousands more go undiagnosed and untreated," said Marcia Boyle, IDF President & Founder. "Raising awareness can help lead to early diagnosis and appropriate treatment for people who are suffering from recurrent, often severe infections but have not yet been diagnosed with PI. We promote awareness of primary immunodeficiency year round, and April is a key time to bring attention to these rare, chronic diseases."
IDF and CIS view Awareness Month and World PI Week as a critical opportunity to educate the public about PI. Although some types present at birth or in early childhood, the disorders can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. They are caused by hereditary or genetic defects and are not contagious.
During the CIS Annual Meeting (April 14-17, 2016) in Boston, members of CIS will present new research findings and discuss treatments for PI with more than 600 meeting attendees. IDF staff members will also participate to share the Foundation's materials and resources for the PI community. The organizations will also mail IDF educational materials to all CIS members.
"The Clinical Immunology Society is devoted to fostering developments in the science and practice of clinical immunology to promote excellence in patient care. There have been many strides made in the treatment and care of patients with primary immunodeficiencies, and it is critical for patients to receive proper treatment under the care of a specialist," Luigi D. Notarangelo, MD, CIS President. "We are pleased to partner with IDF during Awareness Month and World PI Week to help increase understanding of these complex diseases on a national and international level."
With early diagnosis and proper medical care, many patients with PI can live long, healthy lives. For more information, visit www.primaryimmune.org or call 800-296-4433.
World PI Week: April 22-29
IDF and CIS are joining organizations across the globe to promote awareness of primary immunodeficiency diseases during World PI Week, April 22-29. IDF participates in international initiatives with the objective to Test, Diagnose and Treat! For more information about World PI Week, visit www.worldpiweek.org.
About the Immune Deficiency Foundation
The Immune Deficiency Foundation (IDF), founded in 1980, is the national non-profit patient organization dedicated to improving the diagnosis, treatment and quality of life of persons with primary immunodeficiency diseases (PI) through advocacy, education and research. There are approximately 250,000 people who are diagnosed with a PI in the U.S. These individuals often find it difficult to receive specialized healthcare, proper diagnosis and treatment. Individuals affected by PI also experience difficulties financing their healthcare, finding educational materials on the disease and locating others with whom to share their experiences. IDF helps these individuals overcome these difficulties and live a healthy and productive life. The constant presence of IDF assures patients, their families and their medical caretakers that there is a place to turn for help. To learn more about IDF, visit www.primaryimmune.org.
About the Clinical Immunology Society
The Clinical Immunology Society (CIS), established in 1986, is devoted to fostering developments in the science and practice of clinical immunology. CIS works to facilitate education, translational research and novel approaches to therapy in clinical immunology to promote excellence in the care of patients with immunologic/inflammatory disorders. To learn more about CIS, visit www.clinimmsoc.org.
SOURCE Immune Deficiency Foundation