Dear Colleague:
Asia and Oceania Thyroid Association (AOTA) has 30 yearsf history since its establishment in 1975. During the 13th International Thyroid Congress in Buenos Aires, new council members were elected. Since then a new executive committee has been in place. Now, succeeding the excellent work by the previous Secretary, Dr. Shong, our new Secretary, Dr. Murata has set up a new AOTA office in Nagoya, Japan.
In the last ITC, there were 164 registrants (9%) from AOTA, although we are in the farthest area from Argentine. The 8th AOTA Congress is scheduled on February 4-6, 2007 in Manila, Philippines. I am pleased to announce the launching of a new AOTA Prize, Nagataki Prize, in this Congress, which will be awarded to a distinguished scientist in the region.
The AOTA is structured so as to foster scientific and educational activities relating the thyroid, from basic science to clinical investigation and new therapies. Now, it is expected to expand and diversify its activities and services to the membership. Other than regular scientific meetings, we need to have more chance to meet and to have educational programs for young people. With the support of the Japan Thyroid Association (JTA), we plan to start an international symposium at the time of the annual meeting of JTA inviting AOTA members abroad. I also hope to keep close communication among members through this home page.
Looking forward to seeing you all in Manila!
Junji Konishi, M.D.
President of AOTA