From November 26th to 30th more than 240 professionals interested in myology gathered at the Vidawasi Cultural Center to attend the 17th Euro-Latin American Summer School of Myology (EVELAM) 2024, where 25 European and Latin American experts in neuromuscular disorders gathered with 240 attendees to share and exchange their experiences. Although most of the audience (60%) were from Peru, 14 other Latin American countries were represented, along with the participation of speakers from Canada, Spain, France, Italy and the United Kingdom. As has become the norm, EVELAM was held in a hybrid format, with 66 of the 240 participants attending virtually.
This year, EVELAM 2024 took place in the city of Urubamba, Peru, in the center of Inca’s Sacred Valley, surrounded by an impressive Andean countryside full of archaeological centers and pre-Columbian constructions. The welcoming locals combine the incredible flavours in an unmatched way to create amazing and unforgettable food.
The scientific programme covered basic and applied aspects of myology and neuromuscular diseases. This year, in addition to the EVELAM’s usual programme, we held three workshops. One on electrophysiology of the neuromuscular junction, led by Dr Marcelo Rugiero; a workshop on physiotherapy and motor assessment scales, led by expert physiotherapists Cecilia Hervias and José Corderí; and an interactive workshop on the interpretation of genetic tests, under the tutelage of Drs Cristiane Moreno and Eduardo Tizzano. Colleagues from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador and Uruguay presented real world data on the implementation of high-cost disease-modifying therapies for Spinal Muscular Atrophy in their respective countries, followed by an open debate.
The efforts of the local organising committee wonderfully lead by Dr Peggy Martínez, Dr Iván Dueñas and the Peruvian Society of Neurology did a magnificent job. Breakfasts and lunches were guaranteed for all participants, delegates and speakers and everyone had the opportunity to enjoy a welcome cocktail with typical Peruvian music and dancing.
Many thanks to the supporters that make this EVELAM possible AFM-Téléthon, PTC Therapeutics, Roche, AstraZeneca, Biogen, Novartis, Endomed Peru; Italfarmaco Peru, Sthendal and Vidawasi Peru, as well as the scientific endorsement from Treat NMD.
The next EVELAM is scheduled in San José, Costa Rica at the beginning of December 2025. Don't forget to bring your sunscreen! More Information will be available soon at www.evelam.org.