Healing Through Community: Vasculitis Support Network Debuts in Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad Launches Lifeline for Vasculitis Patients Amid Rising Awareness Push
New Support Group Brings Hope to Vasculitis Patients in Gujarat
Support Group Launched in Ahmedabad to Aid Vasculitis Patients
Breaking the Silence on Vasculitis: New Patient Group Empowers Many
From Rare to Recognised: Ahmedabad Initiative Shines Light on Vasculitis
- Bilkul onlin | Sunday Special
- Ahmedabad | 19 April 2026
To mark Rheumatology Awareness Month, the Vasculitis Society of India, in collaboration with the Rheumatology Association of Gujarat (RAG), has launched a dedicated Vasculitis Patient Support Group in Ahmedabad. The initiative aims to educate patients, provide guidance, and offer reliable information to improve the quality of life for those affected by vasculitis.
The launch event featured an awareness programme focusing on vasculitis, a group of rare autoimmune diseases that cause inflammation of blood vessels. Initially established in Punjab, the Vasculitis Society is now expanding its outreach across India to build stronger patient support networks.
In a message, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel congratulated the organisers, including the Indian Rheumatology Association (IRA) and RAG, for their efforts during Rheumatology Awareness Month. He praised initiatives like the support group and Antardhwani for connecting with patients and addressing their needs.
Vasculitis differs from conditions like rheumatoid arthritis as it directly affects blood vessels rather than joints. Though individually rare, these disorders collectively impact a significant number of patients globally, with prevalence estimated between 0.02% and 0.04%.
Diagnosis remains challenging due to the disease’s wide-ranging symptoms, which can involve organs such as the skin, kidneys, lungs, and brain. It often resembles common illnesses like tuberculosis or infections, leading to delays in diagnosis. Limited access to specialised tests, including ANCA and biopsies, further complicates detection.
The condition can result in severe complications such as organ damage, stroke, or lung haemorrhage, along with long-term disability. Treatment costs, including immunosuppressants and biologic therapies like Rituximab, place a heavy financial burden on patients and families.
Dr Aman Sharma, President of the IRA, highlighted the need for greater awareness and improved access to specialised care across the country. He noted that early diagnosis and effective management are key to reducing complications.
Dr Sapan Pandya emphasised the importance of community support, stating that the Ahmedabad-based group will help patients and caregivers access trustworthy information and adopt healthier lifestyles. Dr Reena Sharma added that awareness and timely diagnosis, supported by appropriate testing and treatment, can significantly improve outcomes.
The event also included participation from several medical experts and a clinical teaching session conducted by SVP Hospital faculty for students.
Upcoming Events
As part of Rheumatology Awareness Month, a Continuing Medical Education (CME) programme for postgraduate medical students will be held on April 19 at Smt. NHL Medical College. The Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology at SVP Hospital plans to organise such academic events annually and has recently introduced a DM course in the specialty.
Additionally, a Rheumatology Awareness Walkathon 2026 is scheduled for April 26 at the Sabarmati Riverfront from 7:00 am to 9:00 am. The event will bring together patients, doctors, and the public to promote awareness about autoimmune diseases, joint health, and the importance of early diagnosis under the theme “Move Free. Live Pain-Free.”
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