The ISDE is committed to representing physicians of all specialties who have an interest in diseases of the esophagus and is devoted to involving young physicians in the workings of the society. A new benefit for physicians in training is a substantially reduced entry-level membership fee that includes electronic access to Diseases of the Esophagus, the premier journal devoted exclusively to esophageal disorders.    Please join us in this exciting future! 

Arrangements for the biennial ISDE Congress in 2010 in Kagoshima, Japan, are progressing well. Prof. Aikou, his congress co-chairs, and the local organizing committee, with the assistance of Japan Convention Services, are arranging for a very attractive venue, an exciting local program, and outstanding social activities for the congress, to be held September 3-5 in this beautiful resort city.  The abstract deadline has been extended to March 31, 2010, to permit as many participants as possible.

Efforts at increasing membership and broadening representation among a variety of specialties interested in esophageal diseases are being spearheaded by Yvonne Romero, MD, of the Mayo Clinic. She and her committee have offered a number of unique ideas aimed at interesting new members in the benefits of our society, including on-line journal access, young investigator awards, and support services for lay people.

The Executive Committee of the ISDE is working diligently to continue the growth of this vital society, even in the face of a difficult worldwide financial climate. Industry support, which has been essential in the health of the society, has waned. We continue to pursue strategic planning initiatives to help guide the ISDE into an exciting future.

Respectfully,

Mark Ferguson, MD