In 1990, the World Council of Coloproctology (WCCP) was formed on Hamilton Island, Australia, following the World Congress of Coloproctology in Sydney. The original purpose was to provide a forum for exchange between established national societies and international federations of colorectal surgeons in addition to fostering and supporting the formation of colorectal organizations in countries in which the specialty was developing. In 2003, ASCRS offered to host the Secretariat and the name was changed to the International Council of Coloproctology (ICCP). In return, ICCP has assisted ASCRS with its international activities. Hence, ICCP replaced the previous International Advisory Committee of ASCRS.
So as to provide a more inclusive base and having developed its own momentum, ICCP has become more independent and thus more internationally relevant for all colorectal organizations internationally.
ASCRS has remained most supportive and has continued to provide funding for the Secretariat and administrative services. Separately, ASCRS continues to fund scholarships which are now administered through the new International Committee of ASCRS, the Chairperson of ICCP sitting ex-officio on that body.
ICCP now recognizes over 50 national and international societies of coloproctology. Its primary activities relate to communication, standards, training, bowel cancer prevention programs and outreach; it holds workshops on these matters. ICCP is in an excellent position to support colorectal surgical development generally and certain activities of individual colorectal organizations as appropriate and when requested.
Some specific details are noted as follows:
The ICCP provides a list of related International Societies dedicated to colorproctology. International groups are listed along with their contact information to facilitate collaboration and sharing of information among the various International Societies.
Informatics
Listing (and maintenance of a register) of all national colorectal surgical societies, email addresses, websites, (current) secretariat/Presidents, planned scientific meetings and national colorectal training programs, etc. This is updated by the Secretariat at least twice yearly.
In addition it continues to develop links between the websites of colorectal societies and colorectal organizations. It enhances means of access to colorectal journals.
International Speakers
- Recommends and develops a repository of names of suitable speakers for future colorectal meetings.
- Maintenance of a resource databank for teachers/speakers for international activities.
Outreach Programs
In concert with International colleagues, ICCP identifies both needs and opportunities to:
- Support short visits by teams of senior (and junior) colorectal surgeons and stomal therapists to assist in areas of need, essentially in the lower echelon of second world countries;
- Support colorectal surgeons in the development of colorectal services in the upper echelon of second world countries; and
- Explore granting opportunities with NGOs, etc.
Training Programs
Maintain a current database of colorectal training programs around the world.
Standards of Practice
Determine needs and utility (with input from Standards Committee of ASCRS).
Bowel Cancer Awareness and Prevention Programs
Maintain a database of all current programs (government, organizational and patient advocacy based) and assist in the dissemination of information and support necessary to develop such programs.
International Collaboration
Act as a facilitator in the development of international colorectal activities where appropriate.
The International Council of Coloproctology consists of an Executive Committee, which carries out the administrative functions including the collection and collation of data, an (advisory) council, and members representing national colorectal societies and regional associations.
Contacts
Dr. Graham Newstead, Chairperson
Email: grahamnewstead@sydneycolorectal.com.au or new@bigpond.net.au