Dear Collegue

We would like to invite you to the Gastrosummit (METAP-CIS) group, which sets out with a new and original understanding and approach in the field of Gastroenterology.

The classical understanding of medicine has transformed rapidly into a regional hierarchical structure. Both the content of the congresses organized and the shares of the speakers, as well as the countries where the publications with high impact factors originate dominate medicine, have been the most important determinants of this structure. In fact, the resources allocated to science have increased significantly in recent years in regions other than the dominating (so-call developed) countries. Access to all types of publications or sophisticated diagnostic and treatment tools has become easier. The importance of basic and translational science has been better understood and more resources started to allocate.

However, instead of reaching a more balanced GI world, the hierarchical structure has become more and more dominant.

Although there are different realities between regions in the field of Gastroenterology, it is observed that guidelines that do not take these realities into account and portray universal understandings that are actually based on experiences of patients in the Global North play a major role in the diagnosis and treatment of our patients worldwide.

There are a few organizations specialized in the medical needs of developing or underdeveloped countries (such as the World Gastroenterology Association) and very few diagnostic and treatment guidelines tailored to the needs of doctors living in resource-limited regions. There is a need for specialized structures that understand these needs and can create more practical and pragmatic approaches by adapting the realities of countries with limited resources.

Gastrosummit (METAP-CIS) emerged as a result of these needs and focused on pioneering the diagnosis and treatment needs of countries with limited resources in the field of Gastroenterology. In addition, it aims to increase the education and cooperation & collaboration and communication of young and academically promising experts or trainees of the participating countries.

This structure, which was first established with leading names in the field from seven countries, aims to provide a much wider participation in its first meeting to be held in Istanbul on 6-7 September 2024. This number has already reached 11 countries, and during the congress, diagnostic and treatment approaches related with the realities of our countries will be evaluated. Small group discussions of the cases presented by our young colleagues will be held.

This group has future plans such as regular meetings, academic development programs, scientific productions in line with our own realities, and supporting our young scientists to ensure that they take a more active and distinguished place in the international community.

We believe that we will become stronger with your support on this path. If you would like to learn more or be a part of this initiative please do not hesitate to contact with us.

Regards.