IGCS and JSGO form Strategic Alliance Partnership

IGCS Members and Friends,

We are delighted to announce that esteemed Japan Society of Gynecologic Oncology (JSGO) has officially become a part of the International Gynecologic Cancer Society’s Strategic Alliance Partner Program. This collaboration brings over 3000 Japanese gynecologic cancer specialists into the IGCS family, enriching our diverse global community.

JSGO was first established as the Japanese Society for Colposcopy and Pathology in 1975. Its name was changed to Japan Society of Gynecologic Oncology as a specified non-profit corporation (NPO) by merging two other gynecologic oncology societies in 1998 and was certified in 2013 as a public interest incorporated association. JSGO Vice Chairperson, Dr. Masaki Mandai said “The pursuit of excellence is a shared journey. Together, IGCS and JSGO will build bridges between experience and ambition, fostering a community where wisdom flows seamlessly.”

Japan is an island nation in eastern Asia with over 126.7 million people, 90% of whom live in urban areas. Japan has one of the highest life expectancies in the world and the number of Japanese cancer survivors is expected to increase in next several decades, which means the need for palliative and supportive care will grow as well. According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 43,272 women will be diagnosed with gynecologic cancer each year in Japan.

Speaking on behalf of our colleagues throughout Japan, JSGO is eager to contribute to the global community and be a part of the larger conversation and mission of IGCS and as we head into 2024. We’d like to thank the IGCS CEO, Mary Eiken for her enthusiasm and support in bridging this alliance. Mary said to us “It is important to us to strike a balance that is beneficial for both organizations. Japanese researchers and practitioners gain access to a broader international network and perspective, while IGCS members benefit from insights into unique aspects of gynecologic oncology in Japan where surgical care is truly outstanding, research and clinical trials are taking place, and cervical cancer continues to be a deadly force in the country.”

Dr. Aikou Okamoto (JSGO Vice Chairperson) said “When Dr. Fujiwara and I co-chaired the 2018 IGCS Biennial Meeting (now IGCS Annual Global Meeting) in Kyoto, Japan, it was a great opportunity to strengthen collaborative relationships with our international colleagues and lay the groundwork for continued cooperation. Being one of the most well-attended meetings in all of IGCS’ history, it is apparent that JSGO members are interested in international collaboration and that we have much to contribute to the advancement of gynecologic cancer care not only in our country, but globally as well.”

JSGO Secretary General, Dr. Nao Suzuki who was recently elected as IGCS Board Member representative for Asia, Oceania, and the Pacific is ready to facilitate our new alliance. As the newest Senior Mentor for the IGCS Early Career Research and Publications Network, he will provide guidance to IGCS Members navigating the early stages of their career. Dr. Suzuki said "Nurturing the next generation of researchers is not just a duty; it's a privilege that can shape the future of our specialty. IGCS exposes young researchers to a global perspective. This can be particularly enriching, helping them understand how their work fits into the broader global context and promoting a more inclusive and interconnected scientific community.”

Together, we are stronger, and together, we will continue to make a meaningful impact on the lives of women around the world. We are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead as we work together to further the mission of both organizations.