Nevada Rare Disease Advisory Council
LAS VEGAS – October 13, 2023 – The Nevada Rare Disease Advisory Council (NV-RDAC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Sumit Gupta, M.D., as its newest physician member. Dr. Gupta’s extensive expertise in hematology/oncology, coupled with his commitment to advancing rare disease care, will be invaluable to the council’s mission.
Dr. Gupta currently serves as a board-certified hematology/oncology physician at Cure 4 The Kids Foundation, Southern Nevada’s premier pediatric cancer and rare disease treatment center.
In addition to his clinical role, he holds positions as a clinical assistant professor at the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and a clinical assistant professor at the Roseman University College of Medicine. Furthermore, he serves as an adjunct assistant professor at Touro University. He is also a member of the Nevada Newborn Screening Advisory Committee (NSAC). Dr. Gupta’s appointment to the NV-RDAC extends for three years.
The NV-RDAC, established by the 2019 Nevada State Legislature, plays a crucial role in the state’s healthcare landscape. Its core objectives include analyzing the incidence, causes, and economic impact of rare diseases in Nevada. To accomplish these goals, the council is working towards:
• Developing a comprehensive registry of rare diseases diagnosed within the state.
• Raising awareness among healthcare providers regarding the early symptoms and appropriate care for patients with rare diseases.
• Creating a comprehensive plan for the management of rare diseases, ensuring consistent, evidence-based care across Nevada.
“Dr. Gupta’s participation and expertise will bolster the NV-RDAC’s mission to raise awareness about rare diseases and improve the quality of care provided to rare disease patients across the state,” said Annette Logan-Parker, Chairperson of the Nevada Rare Disease Advisory Council. “With Dr. Gupta and our dedicated council members, we are forging a comprehensive care model for Nevada, guaranteeing that every patient, regardless of their location, receives the highest quality care and treatment available.”
Rare diseases are defined as conditions affecting fewer than 200,000 Americans, and collectively, they impact more than 30 million individuals in the United States, as reported by the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD). Many rare diseases present similar clinical challenges, as most healthcare professionals may lack experience in recognizing or managing these conditions. Consequently, diagnosis delays and inaccuracies are common, and optimal clinical management can be elusive.
The Nevada Rare Disease Advisory Council produces an annual report summarizing its activities and recommendations for state legislation and policies. Nevadans interested in supporting the NV-RDAC’s initiatives and contributing to research and treatment for childhood cancer (a rare disease) can do so through the Nevada DMV Specialized License Plate program.
About the Nevada Rare Disease Advisory Council (NVRDAC):
The Nevada Rare Disease Advisory Council was established by the Nevada State Legislature to address the unique healthcare needs of individuals affected by rare diseases in the state of Nevada. Its mission is to improve awareness, diagnosis, and care for those with rare diseases, ensuring that all Nevadans receive the best possible treatment and support. The council collaborates with healthcare providers, researchers, and advocates to advance its objectives. For more information, visit nvrdac.org/
