More than just medicine: the BSLM 2025 medical conference

Healthcare needs both "Art" and "Science"

The main theme of the conference was balancing the “science” of medicine with the “art” of clinical practice. The “science” is the hard evidence: what the research says about lifestyle factors such as nutrition, exercise, and sleep. But the “art” is about understanding the human side of health, recognising that health is also about connection and purpose.    

The conference also showcased new and evidence-based ideas that are having a transformative impact on the health and well-being of people and their communities.  For example, there was a fascinating presentation on how health happens outside of healthcare when communities come together to help and support each other.  

It was refreshing to see that the voices of people with lived experience of chronic conditions were fully integrated into the conference.  This provided a constant and powerful reminder of why everyone was there. 

Conversations and connections 

We had an inspiring time on the Overcoming MS stand, having conversations and connecting with so many healthcare professionals who want to make a difference through lifestyle medicine and embrace the importance of using lifestyle changes to support people to live well with MS. There was a great deal of interest in the important work of the charity and our new online course for healthcare professionals.  

We also spoke to HCPs about their personal stories of MS and how they are not only supporting people in clinical settings but also family members, friends and loved ones. These conversations were a stark reminder that MS can affect anyone, and the impact of the disease on families and friends is often significant.

New online course launched 

We were delighted to successfully launch our new online course for HCPs – Transforming brain health: integrating lifestyle and self-management in MS care – at the conference with 5 people registering during the event. Developed in partnership with the BSLM, the course is designed to help HCPs integrate lifestyle and self-management into MS care, supporting people to make achievable and meaningful lifestyle adjustments that support long-term brain health.   

A Hopeful Future 

Overall, it was a great conference and painted a picture of a hopeful future for lifestyle medicine – one that is more compassionate, looks at the whole person, and is built on a partnership between health professionals and the people they care for.