From November 15 to 18, 2023, the 54th American Pancreatic Association (APA) Annual Meeting took place in San Diego, California.A delegation of Chinese scholars, led by Academician Yupei Zhao, President of the Chinese Association of Pancreatology (CAP) participated in this significant event.
Before the meeting, 11 Chinese scholars were invited to join the "Abstract Review Committee." Following their review, 247 abstracts from Chinese scholars were accepted, accounting for 55.4% of all abstracts, setting a historic record by surpassing American scholars' submissions for the first time. Of these, six abstracts were invited for oral presentations, and 14 were recognized as outstanding posters.
The conference showcased the excellent spirit of Chinese research teams, with six experts chairing sessions and enhancing the international academic influence of Chinese scholars. Additionally, six young researchers were awarded the "Young Investigator Travel Award", acknowledging their significant contributions.
This APA Annual Meeting highlighted key research trends and future directions in the field of pancreatology. Through reports, discussions, and exchanges with global experts, Chinese scholars deepened their understanding of related fields, expanded their academic horizons, and identified new research directions. They also engaged in extensive interactions with international peers, strengthening existing relationships and forming new collaborations.
Following the CAP-APA memorandum of understanding, this event was the first major international academic activity hosted by the APA. Discussions between President Yupei Zhao, Vice President Wenming Wu of CAP, Secretary-General Ashok Saluja, President Min Li of APA and key members of both associations led to a consensus on deepening cooperation in academic exchange, high quality platform development, international collaboration, and youth talent cultivation.
This participation marked CAP's first delegation visit since its establishment, promoting exchange with global experts, enhancing understanding of cutting-edge achievements, expanding academic influence, and securing more academic resources. Most importantly, it further detailed the memorandum's implementation, setting specific goals and plans for inter-societal cooperation to advance the field of pancreatology in China and improve patient outcomes.