Editorial: Fostering Global Collaboration Around Kawasaki Disease. Reflections From the 14th International Kawasaki Disease Symposium
From August 26 to August 29, the 14th International Kawasaki Disease Symposium (IKDS) was held in Montreal, Canada. For the past 40 years, IKDS has brought together researchers and scientists dedicated to understanding Kawasaki Disease (KD). With new generations joining the efforts of original KD leaders, it has become evident that a three-day event followed by a long pause is no longer sufficient. KD has become a global issue, and advancements in fields such as climate science, epidemiology, and artificial intelligence are emerging from many nations.
The event highlighted the need for IKDS to evolve from a scientific symposium into a scientific society. This transformation will redefine the “S” in IKDS, shifting from a platform for knowledge exchange to a summit for decision-making, a scholastic hub for training the next generation of researchers and healthcare providers, and ultimately, to a society that connects existing KD networks, including patient advocacy groups worldwide.
The co-presidents of the 14th IKDS initiated this vision, acknowledging that creating a new society is a significant undertaking. As a result of this event, they are establishing a working group of ambassadors to focus on the following objectives:
1. Explore the needs of diverse community groups and nations beyond the traditional KD leadership circles.
2. Share information about IKDS conferences and KD research activities in areas where it is lacking.
3. Encourage both new and established members of the KD community to advocate for change.
These efforts will help establish a KD academy and build an international society for Kawasaki Disease.
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