#USA #Washington DC #RRP #Precigen #RRPF

Overview

On June 11, 2025, Precigen, Inc., a prominent biopharmaceutical company, will partner with the Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis Foundation (RRPF) to host the International Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis (RRP) Awareness Day. This significant global event aims to bring attention to the challenges faced by RRP patients and their caregivers.

Understanding RRP

Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis is a chronic condition primarily caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV) types 6 and 11. This disease leads to the formation of benign tumors, or papillomas, in the respiratory tract, resulting in various severe health issues. These include voice disturbances, compromised airways, and recurrent pneumonia caused by airway obstruction. The rarity of RRP compounds the struggle, with approximately 27,000 adults in the U.S. and over 125,000 globally living with the disease, according to estimates. Furthermore, while manageable, RRP can also progress to malignancy, underscoring the urgent need for better treatment options.

Current Treatment Challenges

At present, patients with RRP often undergo a series of surgeries to remove papillomas, but this approach fails to address the root cause and results in significant risks, including irreversible injuries and possible complications. With the cycle of surgery often repeating hundreds of times throughout a patient's life, the burden can be extraordinarily taxing, both physically and emotionally.

The Significance of Awareness Day

RRP Awareness Day will include a live event in Washington, D.C., featuring a panel of patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. This gathering represents not just a moment to share experiences but also a platform for eliciting much-needed discussion about the everyday realities of living with RRP. This year, the focus will be on the patient experience, highlighting the pressing need for new treatments, as current therapeutic options lack proper effectiveness.

Kim McClellan, Board President of RRPF, emphasized the importance of collective voices in supporting the RRP community: "This event provides an important platform for our community to help raise awareness about the experience and burden of living with a rare, chronic, and debilitating disease like RRP."

Looking to the Future

Helen Sabzevari, PhD, President and CEO of Precigen, reflected on the optimism flowing through the RRP community during this pivotal time: "For too long, RRP patients have faced unceasing struggles without warranted acknowledgment of the disease's impact. With new research and innovative methods, we believe hope is on the horizon."

Getting Involved

On June 11, participants can join the broadcast online, expanding the reach and impact of awareness efforts. Community members are encouraged to visit www.RRPAwareness.org for more details and to register for the live event. This initiative is not only about raising awareness but fostering a supportive community for those affected by RRP.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Precigen and RRPF highlights the ongoing efforts to enhance the lives of RRP patients while advocating for innovative solutions that address their needs. The 2025 International RRP Awareness Day marks not just a day of recognition but a rallying point for hope, change, and community support.

By joining together on this important day, we can further strengthen the dialogue around RRP and work towards improved treatment options for all those impacted.