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Vasculitis Foundation Launches National Virtual Forum

The Vasculitis Foundation (VF) has taken a significant step forward in addressing the pressing concerns of patients suffering from vasculitis. Announced on October 30, 2026, the Vasculitis Community Forum: Patient Perspectives will be conducted as a national virtual event on November 20, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM ET. This forum will bring together patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and influential stakeholders to share their experiences and discuss critical gaps in vasculitis treatment options.

Understanding Vasculitis and Its Challenges

Vasculitis comprises a group of nearly 20 rare diseases marked by inflammation in blood vessels, leading to severe health issues and, at times, life-threatening complications. Currently, around ten FDA-approved therapies exist, yet many patients primarily rely on corticosteroids—treatments that often carry a heavy burden of side effects and potential long-term damage. The need for safer and more effective alternatives has become increasingly urgent, hence the focus of this upcoming forum.

A Timely Discussion

The timing of the forum coincides with crucial regulatory deliberations that could determine the availability of alternative therapies for vasculitis patients. The VF aims to ensure that the voices of patients resonate with regulatory bodies like the FDA, thereby spotlighting the necessity for enhanced treatment options. The forum intends to fortify the connection between real-world experiences and the decisions made by regulatory entities.

Key Highlights of the Forum

Attendees can expect a robust two-hour agenda that includes:

• - A clinical overview of vasculitis and current treatment methodologies presented by expertise in the field.
• - Two moderated panels featuring patients and caregivers sharing firsthand accounts of living with the condition.
• - An interactive discussion focusing on the unmet needs within the vasculitis community with an emphasis on alternative therapies.
• - Opportunities for participants to engage with real-time polls and contribute through chat features.

Invitations have been extended to members of Congress, the FDA, and other regulatory officials, allowing them to hear directly from those who manage the daily impact of vasculitis.

Objective of the Forum

Joyce Kullman, President of the Vasculitis Foundation, emphasized the importance of this forum by stating, "The timing is right for the Vasculitis Foundation to shine a spotlight on the unmet needs and treatment-related priorities of patients and their care teams. By convening this Forum, we aim to provide a more complete picture of what it's like to live with and manage vasculitis today—and to drive meaningful change in how therapies are developed, evaluated, and accessed."

Post-event, the Vasculitis Foundation plans to release a comprehensive whitepaper summarizing the attendees' insights and recommendations, which will be circulated to clinicians, treatment developers, media, and regulators to influence future strategies.

Registration Information

Registration for this important forum is currently open, and the Vasculitis Foundation encourages patients, caregivers, clinicians, and all interested stakeholders to register and participate. By sharing their insights, attendees will contribute to a vital conversation aimed at improving the treatment landscape for vasculitis.

For more details and to secure your spot, visit the Vasculitis Foundation's website.

About the Vasculitis Foundation

The Vasculitis Foundation is the foremost organization in the U.S. dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals impacted by vasculitis. Through research, education, advocacy, and support, the VF emphasizes their commitment to combating the challenges faced by patients with this rare disease.