Welcome from the Conference Chair

Dear Colleagues,

In the name of the Canadian Association of Bariatric Physicians and Surgeons (CABPS) and as this year’s Program Chair, I would like to welcome everyone to our beautiful city of Montreal and the 2024 edition of the Canadian Obesity Weekend. We acknowledge this conference is held on the traditional territory of the Kanien’kehà:ka, a place which has long served as a site of meeting and exchange amongst many First Nations. We recognize and respect the Kanien’kehà:ka as the traditional custodians of the lands and waters on which we meet this weekend.

This year’s edition is a joint venture between CABPS and IFSO’s North American Chapter. As such I am grateful to Dr Jaime Ponce, the current IFSO North American Chapter President as well as to Dr Ann Rogers ASMBS President Elect for their generous participation and thought-provoking presentations. 

The 2024 Canadian Obesity Weekend is a multidisciplinary event with outstanding educational value dedicated to people living with obesity. Thanks to a great Conference Organizing Committee team we believe this year’s program will fulfill the educational expectations of CABPS diverse membership. During these 2 days, I am looking forward to a stellar combination of allied health, medical and surgical talks. 

In addition to Dr Vallis’ talk as the CABPS Distinguished Service awardee, I am pleased to introduce Dr Verma’s Keynote Adress which will give us an up-to-date overview on how the treatment of obesity intersects with cardiology. I am equally excited to emphasize Dr Johanne Allard’s Nutrition in Obesity talk as this year’s David Lau Lectureship. This, in addition to numerous thoughtful, carefully selected, allied health and medical talks throughout the conference. Finally, metabolic and bariatric surgeons will not be forgotten with various technical presentations and exciting surgical videos. 

The Canadian Obesity Weekend is a place for learning but also for having fun! I am looking forward to meeting all of you during the nutritional breaks, wine and cheese reception and during our Social/Innovation Night at McLean’s Pub on Friday night. Moreover, throughout the conference numerous prize draws will keep everyone on the edge! 

Furthermore, all of us on the Conference Organizing Committee want to thank our industry partners and sponsors for their support. Without their help and collaboration organising such a conference would be nearly impossible. Last but not least, we extend our deepest appreciation to all speakers, moderators, volunteers and conference participants that will undoubtedly make this edition of the Canadian Obesity Weekend memorable. 

Sincerely,
 

CANADIAN ASSOCIATION OF BARIATRIC PHYSICIANS AND SURGEONS
 

Radu Pescarus, MD, FRCSC
Conference Chair 
 

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