The 9th Systemic Sclerosis World Congress, held in Athens from 5 to 7 March 2026, once again brought together the international community committed to advancing research and care for scleroderma, a rare and complex disease.
Scleroderma, derived from the Greek term meaning “hard skin”, is characterized by vascular damage, organ scarring and immune system dysfunction. Today, more than 2.5 million people worldwide are estimated to live with the condition, the majority of whom are women of childbearing age.
The 2026 edition of the congress provided an important platform for sharing new scientific evidence, fostering international collaboration and strengthening the global network of professionals dedicated to the disease. Approximately 1,000 doctors and researchers from 56 countries took part in the event, together with around 200 patients representing 24 countries.
The scientific programme featured a rich agenda including plenary and parallel sessions, invited and opening lectures, satellite symposia, “Meet the Professor” sessions, workshops and pre-congress courses with hands-on activities, offering participants multiple opportunities for learning, dialogue and exchange.
AIM: a long-standing partner of the scientific community
Since 2010, AIM Group International has been responsible for the organisation of the Systemic Sclerosis World Congress, acting as a strategic partner for the international scientific community. The AIM team coordinates all stakeholders—from the scientific committee to partner associations—and manages the entire congress process, from strategic planning to communication and operations.
Among the key innovations introduced in the 2026 edition was the initiative “Champions of Progress – Driving Advance in Scleroderma Research,” conceived by AIM and inspired by Athens as the cradle of the Olympic Games. The project introduced the concept of “Scientific Olympics,” designed to encourage participation and engagement among researchers.
Scientific posters were evaluated not only by the scientific committee but also by congress delegates through a QR-code digital voting system. The authors of the three most-voted posters were awarded free registration for the 2028 edition of the congress. In addition, the author of the top-ranked poster received the “Champions of Progress Torch,” becoming the official torchbearer for the next edition with the mission of promoting research and inspiring new scientists to contribute to the field.
The initiative produced tangible results, generating more than 100 additional abstract submissions compared to previous editions and significantly increasing the engagement of the scientific community.
Strengthening community and networking
Alongside the scientific programme, the congress also offered opportunities for networking and informal exchange. The social programme included a Welcome Cocktail at the congress venue and a Congress Dinner in the city centre, bringing together doctors, researchers, patients and associations in a collaborative and inclusive atmosphere.
Looking ahead
With consistent international participation and growing support from sponsors, the Systemic Sclerosis World Congress continues to strengthen its role as a global reference point for scleroderma research.
Through initiatives such as Champions of Progress, AIM Group International confirms its commitment to designing and delivering scientific congresses capable of generating long-term value and impact for the international medical and research community.
