Bhubaneswar, 09 August 2026: The Odisha Arthritis and Rheumatology Foundation Trust (OARFT) successfully organized OARC Update V, a one-day national conference on the theme “Connecting Density and Destiny in Osteoporosis,” at Hotel Mayfair Convention Centre, Bhubaneswar. The conference was held in association with the Indian Rheumatology Association (IRA), Odisha Endocrine Society (OES), and Odisha Orthopaedic Association (OOA).
The conference brought together leading experts from Rheumatology, Endocrinology, Orthopaedics, and Internal Medicine to discuss recent advances in the diagnosis, prevention, and management of osteoporosis, with special emphasis on improving long-term patient outcomes through multidisciplinary care.
The scientific programme was organized under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Jyoti Ranjan Parida, Organizing Secretary, and Dr. Parthajit Das, Scientific Chair. More than 250 delegates, including specialists, postgraduate trainees, and general physicians from across the country, participated in the event.
The conference was inaugurated by Dr. Sisir Kumar Mohapatra, President, Indian Rheumatology Association–Odisha State Branch. The Guests of Honour included Prof. Dr. Pitamber Prusty, President, Odisha Endocrine Society; Prof. Dr. Basanta Kumar Behera, President, Odisha Orthopaedic Association; and Dr. Bharat Panigrahy, President, Association of Physicians of India (API), Odisha Chapter.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of the OARFT Tribute 2026 to Dr. Ira Pande, an eminent rheumatologist from the United Kingdom, in recognition of her exceptional contributions to Rheumatology, osteoporosis research, medical education, and Indo-UK academic collaboration.
OARFT also released the OARC Update V Souvenir, featuring expert review articles and recent developments in osteoporosis. The publication is expected to serve as a valuable reference for healthcare professionals involved in bone health and osteoporosis care.
The conference reaffirmed OARFT’s commitment to promoting continuing medical education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and evidence-based clinical practice for improving patient care across the region.
