ausEE Inc., Australia’s peak national support and patient advocacy organisation for eosinophilic diseases, is celebrating its 11th annual National EOS Awareness Week (#NEOSW) from 7-13 August 2022. ausEE is ‘shining the light’ on eosinophilic diseases and encouraging people to learn more about these debilitating, under-recognised, yet increasingly prevalent diseases and the impact of them.
For the first time, Australian and New Zealand landmarks are lighting up pink and purple to raise awareness for eosinophilic diseases during NEOSW. It is fabulous to see two of our main CRE bases, Newcastle and Brisbane, getting on board with the promotion. Eight locations across Brisbane have turned pink and purple this week, including the Story Bridge and Suncorp Stadium. Newcastle’s very own clock tower at the Newcastle City Hall was included in these landmarks, and was lit up a brilliant pink on Monday night (pictured below).
ausEE aims to raise awareness for all eosinophil-associated diseases, with a particular focus on eosinophilic gastrointestinal diseases (EGIDs). EGIDs are chronic diseases where eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) build up in the gastrointestinal tract causing inflammation and tissue damage. This may be due to a response to food and/or airborne allergens. EGIDs need ongoing monitoring and management and can greatly impact on quality of life.
Our CRE is conducting an increasing amount of research into EGIDs (see publications and other news items). We are particularly interested in investigating whether there may be an overlap between EGIDs and functional gut conditions like dyspepsia. We proudly support ausEE with their initiatives and encourage you to do the same. You may even want to get a glimpse of what it is like for people with EGIDs by being part of the Top 8 Challenge, where you avoid the 8 ‘most likely suspect’ food allergens for one day.
You can read more about ausEE and their work here.
