The Thalassemics and their parents, technicians, nurses, doctors and scientists met at the 5th International Thalassemia Summer School (ITSS) in Antalya between the 20 and 27April 2008. A total of 650 attendees from 10 different countries were participated.
With the participation of many precious scientists, we had an opportunity to review thalassemia, particularly on the basis of genetics and prevention programs, management of the disease and complications and psychological problems of disease. Experts on thalassemia and the members of thalassemia societies including patients and parents had a chance to discuss about the problems and available solutions.
11 Panels, 3 Satellite Symposium and 4 Open Discussions in the Scientific Programme; 2 Discuss with the Expert, 3 Panels, 2 Personnel Development Education Programme and 2 Open Discussions in the Patient and the Family Programme; 12 Conferences in the Course Programme covering Laboratory Diagnosis in Thalassaemia have been organized.
A reference book has been created by compiling both the scientific discussions and the course programme. We would like to thanks to all chairs and lecturers who participate in the 5th ITSS.
Following the opening ceremony, Turkish journalist, writer and singer, Tayfun Talipoğlu and his orchestra namely "Yol Arkadaşları" gave a concert. 21st of April, singer Volkan Konak was together with thalassemics. 22nd of April, Turkish writer and photographer Akgün Akova presented "The Voice of Light" to the thalassemics. Then, the theather of "Don't Allowed Flowers", written by Dr. Betul Akçanal and presented by thalassaemics, had been showed. We celebrated "National Sovereignity and Childrens' Festival" on the 23rd of April 2008 with singers Zeliha Sunal and Murat Göğebakan. We would like to thanks to main sponsors Apotex and Novartis, and other sponsors Med-Kim, Medtek, Biocan Medikal, Biz Medikal and Sante Medikal.
We would like to thanks to Fides for successful organization and Grand Haber Hotel for hospitality.