Dear EASL Members, Dear Friends,
When we use the word “EASL” many of you probably think of the International Liver Congress™ but there is much more to the European Association for Study of the Liver than this flagship event in our calendar. As the leading professional organisation for clinical and scientific hepatologists in Europe, EASL takes on the responsibility for improving our understanding of liver biology and reducing the burden of liver disease in the European population. Throughout the year, EASL undertakes a number of activities which aim to address these responsibilities.
Education is a recognised priority for EASL members. EASL provides educational opportunities at every level from clinical fellow to professor. Educational activities are a major feature of the International Liver Congress™ delivered through the post-graduate course, clinical & scientific symposia and state-of-the-art lectures. During the rest of the year, EASL hosts three schools (two clinical and one basic science) for young hepatologists which provide teaching in an intimate environment to facilitate natural exchange between expert and trainee. There are also 2-3 monothematic conferences and 1 special conference each year which provide up-to-date seminars on selected topics suitable for Hepatologists from a wide range of expertise. If you cannot attend our Congress or conferences then many of the educational activities are available as webcasts on line.
Hepatology remains an academically led specialty and EASL strives to maintain this situation by facilitating research activity and exchange. Many investigators both within Europe and internationally regard the International Liver Congress™ as the primary event to present their latest research findings. With over 8000 people now attending the Congress there are ample opportunities to meet and learn from leading experts in virtually any field of Hepatology. Recognising the problems faced by young investigators in the field, EASL has developed a number of initiatives to provide advice and support. These include the Young Investigators Forum and the Sheila Sherlock Fellowship programme.
As specialists, we have a much clearer view of the problems faced by our patients than politicians, public health officials or even primary care physicians. For this reason, EASL takes on responsibility for raising public awareness and advocating to politicians in Europe. Sadly liver disease remains stigmatised in the public perception and only through dialogue and education of politicians in Brussels can we expect to break down some of the barriers which obstruct the delivery of healthcare services and research funding.
EASL is an individual membership organisation. Whether you want to make use of our activities and resources or whether you just want to be part of a thriving professional group please consider becoming a member.
Kind regards,
Mark Thursz
