Greeting from the President

It is our great honor to host the 31st Annual Meeting of the Japanese Society of Dysphagia Rehabilitation on September 19 and 20, 2025. The meeting will be held in person at the PACIFICO Yokohama North in Yokohama City, followed by an on-demand web broadcast.

The theme of this meeting is “Always eat deliciously! – Prevents aspiration and improves oral food intake.”

As the population ages and life-saving treatments advance, the prevalence of dysphagia in Japan is increasing. Major issues associated with dysphagia include problems with hydration and nutrition due to the limited oral intake, a decline in quality of life, and an increased risk of life-threatening aspiration pneumonia. This meeting will center on the patient’s perspective, aiming to facilitate enjoyable and delicious eating while preventing pneumonia and choking due to aspiration. We are preparing for the meeting to ensure that delegates from various professions can meet, learn together, and share their experiences.

To eat safely and prevent aspiration pneumonia, the function of the throat—pharynx and larynx—is as important as those of the oral cavity, limbs, trunk and breathing. A decreased swallowing reflex in the pharynx and larynx makes swallowing difficult, while a decreased cough reflex can lead to aspiration pneumonia. This meeting is the first to be hosted by the otolaryngology department, which specializes in the examination and treatment of the throat (pharynx and larynx). We are dedicated to ensuring that delegates understand the importance of throat function and rehabilitation in a clear and comprehensible manner, helping them to assist safe eating.

Early autumn in Yokohama, when the meeting will be held, is usually a very pleasant season. We aim to build on the success of the excellent programs from the 2023 and 2024 meetings, organized by former Presidents Haga and Hironaka, to prepare a program that caters to a broad spectrum of professionals. Additionally, we plan to offer educational programs via online on-demand broadcasting.

We look forward to welcoming many attendees from across the country and to hearing your presentations.