Shuji Ishida
I had the opportunity to attend FAOPS 2024 in Korea, and it was both educational and inspiring to gain new knowledge while listening to discussions on neonatal medicine with professionals from various countries. What stood out to me the most, however, was the profound respect expressed by many attendees towards Japan’s neonatal care system. The low neonatal mortality rate in Japan, especially among extremely preterm and extremely low birth weight infants, is a testament to the tireless dedication and innovations of past generations of neonatologists. Their efforts have established Japan as a global leader in this field.
While I am now entering middle age, this experience reinforced my strong desire to ensure that our generation—and the younger ones—continues to build on these achievements. It is our responsibility not only to maintain the high standards of neonatal care in Japan but also to strive for further advancements, both in clinical practice and research.
Furthermore, I became acutely aware of the importance of sharing Japan’s neonatal medical advancements with the global community. By contributing to international scientific publications and actively participating in global conferences, we can continue to disseminate valuable knowledge and collaborate with other nations. This experience has been truly enriching, reminding me of the global impact we can have through these efforts.
I would like to express my gratitude for being given this opportunity.