‘One Medicine’ theme takes centre stage at BEVA Congress

The BEVA Congress, scheduled for September 11-14, 2024 at the ACC in Liverpool, will celebrate the concept of ‘One Medicine,’ highlighting the benefits of knowledge-sharing between medical and equine veterinary clinicians.

BEVA President Roger Smith, a strong advocate of ‘One Medicine,’ aims to demonstrate its advantages at this year’s event. The concept, an extension of the ‘One Health’ approach by the World Health Organisation, focuses on the interconnectedness of human, animal, and ecosystem health. However, ‘One Medicine’ specifically explores the similarities between non-infectious diseases in humans and animals, particularly horses, and how treatments can be mutually beneficial.

Roger emphasised the potential for cross-species learning, noting that some diseases in horses and humans share remarkable similarities, even if they are not identical. As such, many Congress talks will feature examples of ‘One Medicine’ in action, with several medical specialists invited to share their expertise.

One highlight will be the Peter Rossdale Clinical Evidence Lecture by Professor Andrew Carr of the University of Oxford, an expert in tendon disease and surgical techniques. The Congress will also feature a combined session on managing tendon and ligament disease, with both veterinary and human medical perspectives presented by leading specialists.

Professor Bill Ribbans, an orthopaedic surgeon, will discuss detecting stress fractures in athletes, contributing to the broader theme of maintaining the social licence of equine competition. Roger praised Bill as a practical and talented surgeon, recommending his book, ‘Knife in the Fast Lane’, for insights into treating top athletes.

BEVA Congress is designed by horse vets for horse vets, offering more than 90 hours of live and on-demand CPD across six streams, covering equine medicine, surgery, and practice. The event includes an expanded stream for vet nurses, a dedicated stream for farriers, and a bustling exhibition hall featuring the industry’s leading suppliers and referral practices.

The social side of BEVA Congress remains as lively as ever, with events including the Welcome Reception, Annual Dinner, and morning runs for fitness enthusiasts.

For more details and to book tickets, visit www.bevacongress.org