APLAR was established in 1963 at Sydney. Four nations: Australia, India, Japan
and New Zealand together pronounced formation of SEAPAL (South East Asia and
Pacific Area League Against Rheumatism). The first Congress was held in 1968
at the renowned Taj Mahal Hotel on the waterfront across the Gateway of India
in Bombay (India). Since then, SEAPAL grew from strength to strength with many
participating nations. It is now known as the Asia Pacific League of Associations
for Rheumatology.
APLAR strives to propagate and consolidate Rheumatology endeavours in the Asia
Pacific region. Towards this end the APLAR publishes a journal, the APLAR Journal
of Rheumatology. The premier meeting organized by the APLAR every 2 years is
the APLAR Congress which brings together rheumatologists, internists, orthopedic
surgeons, clinical immunologists, physiatrists, physical and occupational therapists,
pediatricians and researchers from allied disciplines on a common platform so
as to provide the best forum in the region for deliberations on all aspects
of musculoskeletal diseases. APLAR is affiliated to ILAR (International League
of Associations for Rheumatology).
APLAR spearheads the fight against arthritis. APLARs mission and goals
focus on providing state of the art care to patients with arthritis and other
musculoskeletal diseases through continuing professional development of members,
increasing the awareness and understanding about rheumatic diseases, patient
advocacy and empowerment, and fostering research in the field of rheumatic diseases.
Welcome to the world of Rheumatology in the Asia Pacific.
WELCOME TO APLAR !