Advancing patient-focused scientific leadership at American Epilepsy Society Annual Meeting

I’ve been lucky to work for UCB in the field of epilepsy for more than two decades, and over that period we have established ourselves as leaders in developing innovative medicines and transforming outcomes for people living with epilepsy, and their families. We do not take this responsibility lightly, recognising the importance of meeting real-world needs and ensuring our work is as valuable to as much of the epilepsy community as possible. We are constantly asking questions of ourselves, holding each other to account on behalf of all the lives that we touch.

At this year’s American Epilepsy Society (AES) Annual Meeting in Orlando, USA, the research we are presenting is reflective of that ongoing commitment. We are showcasing 29 abstracts, including 4 late breakers, covering early research, clinical, health economic, and demographic studies in epilepsy.

It’s a truly broad data set, providing new insights in areas such as Dravet syndrome, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, epilepsy and pregnancy, focal-onset seizures, SUDEP, and for individuals who experience prolonged seizures, all with a focus on elevating epilepsy care today. We also touch on potential treatments of tomorrow, presenting some of our early discovery research work in our ongoing pursuit of treatments that could one day alleviate the underlying causes of epilepsies. We also explore factors contributing to health disparities amongst those living with epilepsy, and what can be done to bring about change.

This year, we are also excited to be partnering with the AES as the exclusive sponsor of components of their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) initiatives at the AES 2023 Annual Meeting. This collaboration signifies our shared values and commitment to fostering an environment of inclusivity, diversity, equity, and excellence. Through this collaboration, UCB supports AES's aim to provide essential career support for both current and emerging epilepsy scientists and clinicians who belong to historically underrepresented groups and underserved populations. By doing so, we seek to bridge gaps and promote equitable opportunities within the epilepsy community.

We are proud of the innovation and impact we have been able to deliver over the past three decades, and we will continue to reimagine how we care for patients, and to progress science that can impact real, unmet needs. If you’re attending the AES Annual Meeting this week, please do come and say hello at the UCB booth, to carry on the conversation on how we can do more for patients.