Dear Colleagues,
As President of the International Academy of Aviation and Space Medicine I look forward to seeing you at our 69th International Congress of Aviation and Space Medicine in Abu Dhabi in October 27-29, 2023. Each year the Academy selects an applicant organization from around the world to host a Congress and we are very pleased that in 2023 we will be going to Abu Dhabi, in the United Arab Emirates. This marks a new chapter in the long history of International Congresses of Aviation & Space Medicine (ICASM) and a “first” for the Academy in this fascinating region of the world.
The role and scope of ICASM covers the breadth of medicine, science and human factors in the topics presented and discussed. As President of the Academy, I would like to invite all those involved in aerospace medicine not only to attend the meeting, but also to consider contributing to the scientific programme by submitting an abstract for an oral or poster presentation at the meeting. The Organising Committee are putting together a programme that will contain not only our prestigious Allard Lecture and Ernsting Panel but also varied and interesting sessions of original research and education across the practice of aviation and space medicine and its underpinning scientific disciplines. I know they are also developing the chance for delegates to undertake one of several educational visits along with the auditorium sessions. We are sure that the whole programme will be valued and exciting for doctors, nurses, scientists and indeed all those whose practice touches on the consequences of flight within and beyond our atmosphere.
While the world has been impacted by the effects and associated restrictions caused by the Covid 19 pandemic the opportunities to meet and exchange ideas and information in person are now returning. To speak in person to professional peers, to meet over a coffee or a meal and to see aspects of aviation operations in a different environment is always the best way to gain a deeper understanding of the many varied and fascinating aspects and practice of aerospace medicine.
I am also sure that many of you would like to take the opportunity to see more of the culture of this exciting and interesting country. A programme is being developed for accompanying persons although I am sure all will be interested in the country’s fabulous Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Formula 1 circuit, the architectural heritage sites and, of course, serious retail therapy. The organisers are putting together opportunities to enable each of you to have a professional and culturally enriching time in Abu Dhabi in October 2023.
I look forward to meeting you there.
Professor David Gradwell
BSc PhD MB ChB, FRCP FRCPE DAvMed FRAeS
President, International Academy of Aviation & Space Medicine
