Who is the BSSA?

Sjögren's Syndrome is recognised as the second most common auto-immune rheumatic disease. Recent estimates suggest that there may be as many as half a million sufferers in the UK alone.

Sjögren's Syndrome is characterised by the degeneration of the mucus secreting glands, particularly the tear ducts of the eyes (lacrimal) and the saliva glands of the mouth. Like other auto-immune diseases it can also have more general (systemic) effects such as fatigue, aching joints and muscles and fever.

Established in 1986, the British Sjögren's Syndrome Association aims to raise awareness and educate people about the condition, and support research into its cause and treatment.

The BSSA currently:

Produces a variety of literature available for sale and distribution to the general public, BSSA members and health professionals. Our latest piece of literature is 'A Concise Guide to Diagnosis and Management for Health Professionals' (NB: if you would like a hard copy of these guidelines, please contact the office) Produces quarterly newsletters that features articles written by specialists as well as general information about symptoms, treatment and BSSA issues. NB: These newsletters are distributed to members as part the membership package, and a back issue service is also available.

Holds regional meetings throughout the UK where people can meet, swap tips on how to deal with their symptoms and listen to speakers with an interest in the condition.

Operates a helpline enabling people to discuss a variety of issues with a qualified nurse.

Allocates an annual research grant to applicants who require whole or part funding of research projects directly connected with Sjögren's Syndrome.

At a site based in Birmingham, the BSSA office co-ordinates all of the activities of the association including processing membership applications, the distribution of BSSA literature and liaison with members of the BSSA medical council and network of regional groups. The office is open between 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday (with an answerphone facility out of hours)

The BSSA Medical Council;

• Advises the BSSA on all clinical and scientific matters.
• Reviews all research grant applications for recommendation to the Trustees.
• Reviews and updates the content of all medical literature produced by the association.