History and activities of Japan Diabetes Society.

After 1953, Dr. Y. Kobayashi organized a study group of chemotherapy of diabetes mellitus, and then a more broader 'Diabetes Study Group' sponsored by the Ministry of Education. During these group activities, the members felt the need to establish a forum to discuss various aspects of diabetology. In December 1957, an inaugural meeting of the Japan Diabetes Society (JDS) was held. The objectives of the Society were to promote the investigation and to spread the knowledge on diabetes and to thereby prevent the hazard arising from diabetes. Since that time, JDS has been admitted as a member of the International Diabetes Federation in 1958, and was approved as an incorporated association by the Ministry of Education in 1985. It has now seven regional branches. Members increased greatly and reached 7795 in March 1993. In every year, JDS has a 3-day nationwide general scientific meeting, and local meetings are held by each of its branches. The official journal 'Tonyobyo (Journal of the Japan Diabetes Society)' is being issued monthly. JDS edited educational books for diabetic patients, such as 'Guidebook for the Treatment of Diabetes', 'The Exchange List of Foods for the Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus' and 'The Guidebook of Summer Camp for Diabetic Children'. In 1967, JDS began to hold a 2-day post-graduate course named 'Progress in Diabetology' for physicians, nurses, dieticians and other health professionals. JDS has a close connection with the Japan Association of Diabetes Care and Education, co-sponsoring the 'diabetes week' every year.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)