University of Chicago Celiac Disease Center to host ICDS 2013

The University of Chicago Celiac Disease Center is hosting the 15th International Celiac Disease Symposium (ICDS) on Sept. 22-25, 2013 in Chicago. The symposium is the largest celiac disease and gluten-related disorders conference in the world. The meeting, which follows the 2011 conference in Oslo, Norway, is the first one being held in the United States since 2006.

The Chicago meeting seeks to address the interests of those affected by celiac disease and gluten-related disorders - from physicians, researchers and clinicians to patients, their families and friends. The meeting will bring together the world's top scientists and physicians to discuss the most recent scientific advances in managing and treating celiac disease and gluten-related disorders, while a separate clinical forum will be held to further educate dietitians, clinicians, and patients.

"We are thrilled to be hosting this unique and important gathering and expect groundbreaking research to be unveiled that will directly impact the prevention of and perhaps cure of celiac disease," said Dr. Stefano Guandalini, co-chairman of ICDS 2013 and founder and medical director of the University of Chicago Celiac Disease Center. "The interaction between scientists, clinicians and consumers makes for a robust and interactive forum, unlike any other meeting."

ICDS Chicago will feature two educational tracks:

• The Scientific Forum is designed for those in active research roles in the area of celiac disease and gluten-related disorders. This is a forum for these researchers and physicians to debate and discuss new theories and data on topics selected by the Scientific Committee.

• The Clinical Forum is designed for physicians, registered dietitians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, nurses and those living with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity. The program will allow participants to learn about the latest research and scientific advances from leading experts. Presentations are geared for practical application in both clinical settings and everyday living. Additionally, the track will explore subjects such as public policy, psychology and the problems surrounding celiac disease in emerging countries. Sessions will allow ample time for Q&A and interactive discussion.

The registration fee for the Scientific Forum is $800 for researchers and physicians and $500 for students, residents and fellows. After July 31, 2013, rates will increase to $900 and $650, respectively. The registration fee for the Clinical Forum is $449 for dietitians, clinicians and patients and $349 for students, residents and fellows, increasing to $549 and $399 after July 31. The program is eligible for continuing medical education (CME) credits through the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine.