The World Congress of Dermatology is one of the longest-standing international medical groups in the world. It got its start in 1889 – seven years before the Olympic Games. Every four years, a group of physicians, researchers, and speakers gather in a single location to discuss recent events, award scholarships, and much, much more.
An International Effort
Since the World Congress of Dermatology began well over a century ago, it remains focused on sharing knowledge, information, and research that allows dermatologists and pharmaceutical companies to create better treatments for a variety of conditions. In fact, many of today’s commonly used treatments were once an idea presented at a World Congress session. It provides doctors from all over the world with an opportunity to brainstorm ideas, feed on one another’s research, and participate in workshops to help improve the care they can provide to their patients. Outside of their sessions, the participants share discoveries and news with the public via the internet and medical journals.
Representing More than 100 Different Societies
The World Congress of Dermatology represents 136 different sub-specialty societies throughout the world, too. This means that some of the lectures and workshops might focus on treating skin conditions like acne or impetigo, while others hone in on cosmetic procedures that restore youthfulness and erase age spots. Dermatologists, as well as others involved in creating procedures and treatments within the particular field of medicine, learn new and interesting facts, and they get to hear about up-and-coming medications or cosmetic procedures that can change lives for the better.
The Last World Congress – Vancouver, Canada 2015
The last World Congress of Dermatology session took place in Vancouver, Canada in June of 2015. Dr. Jerry Shapiro was president, and Dr. Harvey Lui was the Secretary-General. More than 11,500 delegates from around the world attended, with the vast majority coming from countries such as China, India, Canada, the United States, and Brazil. The Congress hosted 271 sessions in total, with an astonishing 4,562 individual presentations all in six days’ time. They also awarded 298 scholarships from 48 different countries to those who aspire to careers in the field of dermatology.
The Next World Congress – Milan, Italy 2019
Each year, countries involved in the World Congress bid to host the following session. For the upcoming 2019 session, Milan, Italy is the venue of choice. It is the most important city in Northern Italy, and its overall economy is booming when compared to other European locations – and even Italy as a whole. Milan was chosen not only for its easy access, particularly for European attendees, but also for its many affordable accommodations which appeal to bright, upcoming scholars from low-income countries who have plenty of knowledge to share. For those interested in attending, the 2019 World Congress of Dermatology occurs from June 10 to June 18 at the MiCo, or Milano Congressi.
Although many patients are unaware of the existence of the World Congress of Dermatology, it helps to know that a massive group of specialists from around the world is always sharing knowledge and information in hopes of finding better, more affordable treatments for a variety of dermatologic conditions.