Norwich - The William W. Backus Hospital will host “Understanding Sjogrens: My Eyes and Mouth are Dry Every Day,” from 5 to 6 p.m. July 23 in the Backus Outpatient Care Center conference room at 111 Salem Turnpike.

Dr. Sandeep Varma, medical director of the Backus Arthritis Center, will present the educational forum. The event is free, but registration is required by calling (860) 425-8710.

About 4 million Americans suffer from Sjogren’s Syndrome, making it one of the most prevalent autoimmune disorders in the country, the hospital said in a news release. Nine out of 10 diagnosed with the syndrome are women. While common symptoms of Sjogren’s include dry eyes and dry mouth, the disorder can also cause more significant dysfunction to the body’s organs.

Early diagnosis and proper treatment may prevent serious complications and greatly improve a patient’s quality of life, the news release said.