“Shaping the future of oral health” was the theme of this year’s World Dental Congress, which was to be held in Shanghai and has now been cancelled. (Image: FDI)

SHANGHAI, China: Owing to the coronavirus pandemic, which originated in the Chinese city of Wuhan and was first reported in December 2019, most dental events for the first half of 2020 have been either cancelled or postponed. Now, FDI World Dental Federation has decided to call off its flagship event, the World Dental Congress (WDC), which was scheduled to take place in Shanghai from 1 to 4 September.

Every year, the WDC provides a platform for the international dental community to meet, participate in a cutting-edge scientific programme, and enjoy an exhibition featuring the latest technologies and products from the industry. Held annually since 1901, the event was last cancelled during the Second World War.

FDI President Dr Gerhard K. Seeberger said in a press release that the “decision to cancel the congress was not taken lightly, but was considered necessary, as the world will still be recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic and countries will be at different stages in the management of this disease. The focus must, therefore, remain on the people and the patients and ensuring they get the best care possible, with the least disruption.”

WDC at a later time

Seeberger went on to thank the Chinese Stomatological Association (CSA), the co-organiser of the meeting, for its support and understanding at this difficult time. He explained that FDI and CSA are working together on rescheduling the congress to a future date, but that it would not be in 2020.

Furthermore, it was announced that FDI members will be contacted separately in the upcoming weeks with specific information on how the congress cancellation will affect the FDI Parliament business meetings. Those who had intended to attend the event can find more information and updates on the WDC website.

By 25 March, 81,869 confirmed cases and 3,287 deaths had been recorded in China, according to the World Health Organization.

1. Prof. Dr. Bedros Yavru-Sakuk says:

   March 27, 2020 at 11:30 am

   Congratulations for a Very Wise Decision of the World Dental Federation FDI to Cancel the FDI World Congress- Shanghai 2020.