We will work to increase the participation of cardiovascular surgeons, and we have added two cardiovascular surgeons to the JCS Board of Directors. More women cardiologists are needed and greater involvement in the activities of the JCS is needed by those who are already members, and we will quickly create a strategy to address these needs.

The JCS will increase its advocacy to the national government. Pressing issues include the insufficient number of cardiologists and the related problem of overwork and stress of cardiologists today, the pressures of emergency medical care in hospital, and the growing mistrust in medical services by the general public, fueled by over zealous media coverage. The JCS will strongly advocate through meetings with the government for improvement in the working conditions for physicians in our field and for establishing better medical facilities in provincial areas.

The JCS is known worldwide for its high-quality scientific activities. I want to build on this reputation to develop the JCS as a recognized center for cardiovascular science and a resource for Asia, the US, and Europe. I urge each of you to work with me on this endeavor, and to contact me to share your thoughts and concerns and suggestions for the JCS.

Respectfully,