International Society of Addiction Medicine Annual Conference

PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT
Project Abstract
The International Society for Addiction Medicine (ISAM) is a professional organization, with over 10,000 affiliate
members, comprised of members situated in clinical and academic settings in the US and over 40 other countries
worldwide. Since 1999, the ISAM Annual Conference has brought together a cross-sectional, multi-national
group of professionals with a common interest in research, clinical practice and training aspects of addiction
medicine. The locations and content of the annual meeting have promoted the development and expansion of
an international network of addiction medical specialists/scientists. Of importance, the meeting is attended by
both researchers and clinical practitioners from throughout the world, allowing for a rich exchange of ideas and
best practices in the treatment of substance use disorders. NIDA support has been critical to the success of the
ISAM Annual Meeting. Speakers from NIDA have added to the scientific program through planning of and
participating in plenary lectures and symposia. In addition, the NIDA grant supplies funding for Travel Fellowships
which make the meeting accessible for individuals who might otherwise have insurmountable financial barriers
to meeting attendance. Through NIDA funding, those awarded Travel Fellowships are able to form relationships
with other addiction professionals worldwide that extend beyond the meeting with continued mentorship and
exchange of ideas via e-mail, tele- and video-conferencing. In this renewal period, we propose to enhance the
experience of the Travel Fellows through involvement of ISAM Interest Groups. We will continue mentoring and
networking events that specifically target early career investigators and clinicians. The ISAM Annual Meeting
offers a singular forum for the international exchange of research findings, clinical experience and societal
perspectives. NIDA funding is vital in supporting the meeting.

Grant Number: 5R13DA052197-05
NIH Institute/Center: NIH
Principal Investigator: Gregory Bunt