History of World Chinese Urological Society (WCUS)

The World Chinese Urological Society (WCUS) stands as a dynamic and influential force in uniting professionals of Chinese descent from around the globe. Established with the vision of fostering collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange, WCUS serves as a beacon of excellence within the urological community. By providing a forum for urologists, andrologists, and urology/andrology scientists, WCUS is a crucible for exchanging cutting-edge research, groundbreaking techniques, and clinical insights. Through its annual meetings and conferences, WCUS nurtures a culture of shared expertise, where luminaries from China (including Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macao), Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, and beyond, converge to shape the trajectory of urology. These gatherings facilitate the exploration of diverse facets of the field, from andrology to oncology, offering a tapestry of insights that enrich the practice and research of urology. WCUS not only honors past achievements but also champions the future. By spotlighting rising stars, offering mentorship, and recognizing exceptional contributions through awards, the society invests in the next generation of urological leaders. This commitment ensures that the legacy of WCUS continues to illuminate the path forward for urology. The society keeps pace with technological advancements, explores groundbreaking treatments, and engages with interdisciplinary collaborations that push the boundaries of urological understanding. With a forward-looking mindset, WCUS remains a vanguard of progress within the urology landscape. Beyond its academic pursuits, WCUS extends its impact through international partnerships, forging connections that span continents. By fostering relationships with urological associations and experts worldwide, the society contributes to a global network of professionals united by a shared passion for advancing urological knowledge and patient care. Founded by eight urologists on February 22, 1902, the American Urological Association (AUA), has been holding annual meetings at which world-class urologists and uroscientists give state-of-the-art lectures and present new discoveries in plenary sessions, poster sessions, symposiums, and postgraduate courses. There are more than 20 000 urologists of Chinese descent in the world, and many have actively participated in the activities of the AUA. These Chinese urologists had become integral to the AUA's activities, actively contributing to its programs and initiatives. In 2005, Dr. Joseph N. Corriere Jr., the President of the AUA at the time, and Dr. Carl A. Olsson, the Secretary, championed a groundbreaking idea in response to the request of Dr. Tom F. Lue. Recognizing the contributions and potential of Chinese urologists, they authorized establishing a Chinese urology program within the annual AUA meeting. This visionary concept resonated deeply with Chinese urologists globally, igniting a wave of enthusiastic support. Dr. Corriere Jr. then visited China in late 2005 and met with premier leaders of the Chinese Urological Association (CUA), thanks to the arrangement by Dr. Run Wang, who was working in the same Urology Department with Dr. Corriere Jr. at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Dr. Corriere Jr.'s historical visit to China stimulated great interest among AUA and world Chinese urology communities to establish an AUA subsociety program specifically for urologists and urological scientists of Chinese descent. That subsociety was later named “World Chinese Urological Society” by Dr. Tom F. Lue. The first WCUS meeting was convened on May 20, 2006[1], in Atlanta, Georgia, within the framework of the AUA annual meeting. This momentous gathering marked the birth of the WCUS and solidified its affiliation with the AUA. At this inaugural meeting, esteemed academicians such as Yinglu Guo, Luke S. Chang, and Tung-Tien Sun assumed roles as moderators. The State-of-Chinese-Urology lectures were delivered by the presidents of five regional Chinese urological associations (Yanqun Na, President, Chinese Urological Association; Dah-Shyong Yu, President, Taiwan Urological Association; Christopher Cheng, President, Singapore Urological Association; Chi Wai Man, President, Hong Kong Urological Association; and Son Fat Ho, President, Macao Urological Association), further underscoring the spirit of collaboration and knowledge sharing that defined the WCUS. Leland Chung was pivotal in coordinating the inaugural program, facilitating unprecedented support and engagement. The meeting heralded a new era of camaraderie, mutual respect, and deep unity among Chinese urologists and uroscientists, transcending geographical boundaries. After the successful inaugural meeting, Tom F. Lue and Run Wang decided to register WCUS as a nonprofit scientific organization in Texas, USA. The application under WCUS name was declined by the State of Texas because the “World” was taken by other organizations. Therefore, the “Global Chinese Urological Society” was used to register our society successfully in 2007 and the society was awarded nonprofit organization status by the US Internal Revenue Service. However, we kept WCUS for all scientific communications since it is a well-known generic name for our society. Over the ensuing years (2007–2014)[2-14], Run Wang was appointed as the executive chair and the WCUS gained momentum, with participation growing steadily. By the 2010 AUA meeting in San Francisco, approximately 500 individuals were actively engaged in WCUS activities. Under the leadership of the Scientific Committee, led by Run Wang, the WCUS transitioned from mere presentations to a program enriched by expert lectures and actionable take-home messages. This evolution was fueled by feedback and suggestions from participants and officials representing the five regional Chinese urological associations. Guiting Lin and Richard Lo took over the WCUS scientific program since 2015. Amid the challenges that emerged, including financial constraints and growing pains, the WCUS persevered. Generous support from corporate partners such as Pfizer, American Medical Systems, and Bayer played a critical role in enabling the WCUS to continue its mission. The WCUS emerged as a successful affiliate society within the AUA, exemplifying resilience and growth. As the society looked to the future, a call was issued for greater involvement, contributions, and leadership from urologists and uroscientists of Chinese descent. With aspirations of becoming one of the world's premier urological societies, the WCUS embraced a spirit of ambition, envisioning a future where its legacy would continue to thrive and make enduring contributions to the field of urology on a global scale. Since its inception in 2006, the WCUS has continuously advanced its mission to foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation within the field of urology (Table 1)[1-14]. Anchored within the framework of the AUA annual meetings, WCUS has grown into a vibrant and influential platform that brings together urological societies, experts, and enthusiasts worldwide. Up to 2019[8], the annual WCUS meeting continues to serve as a pivotal event within the AUA gatherings. Under the leadership of Tom F. Lue and Run Wang, the WCUS Scientific Program Committee crafted a compelling agenda for the 2019 meeting[8]. That year's program reflects the remarkable progress in urology, covering a diverse range of topics including andrology, benign prostatic hyperplasia, lower urinary tract symptoms, incontinence, oncology, and endourology. Furthermore, the special program highlighting rising stars in World Chinese Urology demonstrates the society's commitment to nurturing and recognizing emerging talents. The WCUS 2019 meeting features 10 sessions encompassing the latest advancements and experiences from renowned experts from China (including Taiwan and Hong Kong), Singapore, Turkey, and the United States. These sessions delve into evidence-based insights, prevalence studies, risk factors, etiology, innovative surgical techniques, and more, providing attendees with a comprehensive overview of urological developments[8]. The commemoration of the Lo Ping-Wan Memorial and Madam Lo Chiang Lai-Ching Memorial Lecture adds a special touch to the conference, honoring the legacy of a dedicated individual within the urological community. Past orators included luminaries such as Paul Lange, Tom F. Lue, Christopher Wood, John Davis, Lulin Ma, Xu Zhang, Nianzeng Xing, and so forth (Table 2)[1-14]. Additionally, basic urologic research lectures presented by top scientists further enrich the program, bridging the gap between research and practice. The WCUS 2019 meeting also reflects the society's commitment to expanding international collaborations[8]. A Lunch symposium, supported by Beijing Wanbo Medical Devices Co. Ltd, highlights the application of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound for erectile dysfunction, showcasing the intersection of cutting-edge technology and clinical practice. Moreover, an International Exchanging Session with the Turkish Urological Association signifies the WCUS's dedication to strengthening global connections. Recognizing the value of dialog and interaction, ample time for discussion has been woven into the fabric of the conference, encouraging robust engagement among participants. The conference not only provides an avenue for sharing advancements but also facilitates meaningful connections and networking opportunities. In 2020 and 2021, the worldwide coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic interrupted the annual meeting of the AUA and WCUS. Even though the AUA meeting was successfully held in 2022, owing to global travel limitations, WCUS opted for an online format that maintained its significance. The central hub for these events was in San Francisco, USA, and the virtual participation of over 300 international experts and attendees unequivocally contributed to the success of our WCUS2022 conference. Due to the persistent worldwide travel restrictions, the 15th in-person Annual WCUS Conference was held in conjunction with the Annual Conference of the Chinese Urological Doctor Association in Taiyuan, China, on July 16, 2023. The meeting is a testament to the society's enduring commitment to academic exchange. As a cornerstone of the conference, the WCUS Life Time Achievement Award and the WCUS Rising Star Award spotlight exceptional contributions to urology. By celebrating accomplishments and nurturing emerging talent, these awards fortify the society's mission to drive progress in the field. More than 42 outstanding urologists and urological scientists were recognized by WCUS for their lifetime contributions (Table 3)[1-14]. Since 2019[8], WCUS Rising Star awards have been given to future leaders in urology that stimulated the great interests and involvement of talented young urologists and urological scientists in our society (Table 4)[1-14]. WCUS shines brightly as it continues its trajectory of growth, innovation, and global collaboration. Building upon its rich history and the foundation laid by its predecessors, the WCUS is poised to embark on a journey that will elevate its status as a premier urological society and contribute significantly to the advancement of urology on a global scale. In the years to come, the WCUS envisions a dynamic expansion of its reach and influence, solidifying its role as a hub for the cross-cultural exchange of cutting-edge research, innovative patient care, and groundbreaking discoveries. With its unwavering commitment to fostering collaboration among urologists, andrologists, and urology/andrology scientists worldwide, the WCUS will continue to bridge geographical boundaries and facilitate the sharing of knowledge, expertise, and experiences. One of the hallmarks of the WCUS's future lies in its dedication to cultivating the next generation of leaders and innovators in the field of urology. By providing a platform for rising stars and young talents, the society will nurture and empower individuals who will shape the future of urological practice and research. Through mentorship, educational initiatives, and specialized programs, the WCUS will inspire and support emerging professionals, ensuring a legacy of excellence for generations to come. As technology and medical science advance, the WCUS is committed to staying at the forefront of innovation. The society will continue to embrace emerging technologies, novel treatment modalities, and transformative research, fostering an environment where groundbreaking ideas can flourish. By encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration and pushing the boundaries of traditional urological paradigms, the WCUS will play a pivotal role in driving the field's evolution. Furthermore, the WCUS's commitment to international partnerships and collaboration will remain a cornerstone of its future endeavors. The society will continue to forge alliances with urological associations, institutions, and experts worldwide, fostering a global network of professionals united by a common passion for urology. Through joint initiatives, exchange programs, and collaborative research efforts, the WCUS will contribute to the mutual enrichment of urology internationally. In academic exchange, the WCUS will continue to organize conferences, symposia, and meetings that provide a platform for sharing groundbreaking research, insights, and clinical experiences. These events will serve as catalysts for intellectual discourse, the exploration of emerging trends, and the dissemination of best practices, ultimately elevating the standard of care and advancing patient outcomes. In embracing the digital age, the WCUS will harness technology to amplify its impact and reach. By leveraging online platforms, social media, and digital communication tools, the society will facilitate continuous engagement and knowledge sharing among its members, ensuring that exchanging ideas transcends physical boundaries and occurs in real time. Ultimately, the future of the WCUS is characterized by a steadfast commitment to excellence, innovation, and collaboration. As it navigates the evolving landscape of urology, the society will continue to serve as a beacon of inspiration, a catalyst for progress, and a unifying force within the global urological community. Through its tireless dedication to advancing the frontiers of knowledge and patient care, the WCUS will shape a future where urology reaches new heights of achievement and impact. Tom F. Lue is the Honorary Editor-in-Chief of UroPrecision, Run Wang is the Editor-in-Chief of UroPrecision, and Guiting Lin is the Deputy Editor-in-Chief of UroPrecision. They were excluded from the peer-review process and all editorial decisions related to the acceptance and publication of this article. Peer review was handled independently by the other editors to minimize bias. The authors declare no conflict of interest. The authors are accountable for all aspects of the work in ensuring that questions related to the accuracy or integrity of any part of the work are appropriately investigated and resolved.