Patients with heritable thoracic aortic disease, such as Marfan syndrome and Loeys–Dietz syndrome, face additional challenges at key moments in their lives. These include the transition to adulthood and the journey toward pregnancy.
This patient day brings together patients, clinicians, and experts to share knowledge, strengthen understanding, and build a supportive community.
We link current insights to the latest developments in care and help you and your family with practical tips to make informed choices about your health and future.
Target Group
Everyone with an interest in this topic is warmly welcome to join: adolescents and young adults with heritable thoracic aortic conditions, their parents or caregivers, and individuals (men and women) considering pregnancy in the future.
Program
- 1.30 pm | Welcome and registration
- 2.00 pm | Transition to adulthood | Dr Michèle de Hosson, specialist nurse adult congenital heart disease, Dr Sabine Hellemans, clinical psychologist in medical genetics, and Liesbeth Wildero-Van Wouwe, genetic counsellor
- 3.00 pm | Coffee break
- 3.30 pm | Childwish and pregnancy | Dr Ellen Roets, gynaecologist, Prof. Dr Bart Loeys, clinical geneticist, Prof. Dr Julie De Backer, adult cardiologist and clinical geneticist
- 4.45 pm | Closing remarks by ABSM and 101 Genomes
- 5.00 pm | End end of the event
Practical information
- Saturday 17 October 2026
- UZ Gent, Entrance 7, Nobel 1 Auditorium
- Register by 11 October using this registration form
- The event will be held in English, but questions in Dutch and French are welcome
- Free of charge
- Contact: cardiogenetica@uzgent.be
