History - SASLT

30th
of August
2008

Liver experts in the KSA have been sharing their knowledge and presenting their clinical research data locally through various activities of the Saudi Gastroenterology Association, which has been in existence since 1988. With the continued expansion of the field, it was clear that an independent association for liver disease was warranted. Although this idea had been in the minds of many for some time, it was only recently that it became a reality. Several meetings and rigorous discussions between many of the doctors involved have worked to make this option a reality, and several others have been consulted to consider all relevant ideas. Finally, these efforts have reached the stage of declaring the Saudi Association for the Study of Liver Diseases & Transplantation under the umbrella of the Saudi Council of Health Specialties, after fulfilling all the required regulations.

On the 30th of August 2008, all dreams came true and the first Executive Committee was elected at the first General Assembly to take on the huge responsibility of laying the necessary groundwork to promote this fledgling liver association. Three other boards were later elected.

The first year in the history of the SASLT was obviously busy with many logistical issues, culminating in the launch of the current official website as the most effective way of reaching out to all practitioners in the field, whether they currently have an active membership or plan to do so. The members of the Executive Committee believe in a collaborative teamwork atmosphere with all SASLT stakeholders and in particular seek serious partnerships with related national and international associations in order to achieve common goals.

The potentials are great and the ambitions are greater; however, none of them would be realised without the active and continuous contribution of all colleagues in Saudi Arabia or in other Gulf & Arab countries.

Potentials are great and ambitions are greater, nevertheless, none would come true without the active and continuous contribution from all colleagues in Saudi Arabia or in other Gulf & Arab countries.

Recently, at the request of the SCFHS, the name of the association was changed to the Saudi Society for Liver Disease and Transplantation and it became part of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. However, the acronym SALST was retained as this was the name by which the Society was known internationally.