Highlights From PHA's 10^th International Conference and Scientific Sessions 2012

This past summer, medical experts, patients, and their caregivers came together at the PHA's 10^th International Conference and Scientifi Sessions to learn about advances in the diagnosis and management of pulmonary hypertension. At the PHA conference, there is “something for everyone” and the scientifi sessions are always highly attended as investigators provide their latest updates in the fiel of pulmonary vascular disease. This year, Todd Bull, MD, along with his scientifi sessions committee, built these sessions around the theme of the genetics of pulmonary hypertension. As Guest Editor, Karen Fagan, MD, then tracked down many of the scientifi session conference speakers and asked them to summarize their lectures in this edition of Advances. Authors cover topics ranging from genetic mechanisms of disease to the future of basic science research in the current funding climate and under the NHLBI strategic plan for lung vascular research. In this issue, John Newman, MD, describes a phased approach at his institution for studying genetic mechanisms of PAH with a current focus on investigating other intracellular pathways that may influenc the development of pulmonary hypertension. In conjunction with the science, Ghazwan Butrous, MD, provides a look at the global impact of pulmonary vascular disease with a call to action for attention to this problem in developing countries.

For those who missed the conference, this issue of Advances in Pulmonary Hypertension offers an opportunity to catch up on the latest science. In addition to these topics, current and past issues of Advances can also be found online on PHA's Online University along with other coverage of the amazing conference. Just go to www.phassociation.org for a wealth of information for you and your patients.