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The Canadian Immunodeficiencies Patient Organization (CIPO) became a registered charity in 1998. We have been growing in leaps and bounds since then, and working hard to assist patients in understanding their immune disorders, and treatment options through education and other resources.

It is said, "that a burden shared is a burden lessened", and many patients tell us the moment they found out they were not the only one dealing with their disorder, that their whole mindset changed for the better.

CIPO is a place where you can meet and talk to other patients with primary or secondary immune disorders, both on line and in person. If you are wonderng what the difference is between primary and secondary immune deficiency, it merely indicates how the disorder occurred. Secondary means the immune disorder is secondary to something else. Perhaps treatment with chemotherapy, steriods or cancer caused the immune disorder. Cancers such as lymphoma can also occur at higher than normal levels in those with immune deficiency, so it is sometimes difficult to know which came first. Immune deficiency can also be a symptom of other diseases. To be classified primary, the disorder is either genetic (defect or missing gene or genes) or all other causes for the disorder have been ruled out. HIV is classified as a secondary immune disorder, but we do not have the resources to help those patients. We urge anyone with HIV to contact any one of a number of organizations and support groups that exist specifically for HIV patients.

We devote substantial resources to educating families, the public, and the medical community about these disorders, and also to advocating for patients both indivdually and as a group.

CIPO has six regional chapters in Canada that hold regular meetings and offer a number of services to patients such as providing literature, advocacy, organizing support meetings, referrals, and sponsoring educational and social events.

When you browse our Web site you will find links to literature, a list of current and future events, as well as many other useful links. Please be sure to sign our guestbook before you leave, and if you are new to our site, call or email us and we will be happy to send you a welcome package as well as subscribe you to our newsletter.