#Japan #Okinawa #SUNSTAR Award #Japanese Society #Periodontology

68th Annual Spring Meeting of the Japanese Society of Periodontology

The 68th Annual Spring Meeting of the Japanese Society of Periodontology was held recently, showcasing the achievements and contributions of leading researchers in the field. One of the highlights was the announcement of the esteemed SUNSTAR Award winners, which recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to periods of research, education, and clinical practice in periodontology. The award ceremony took place on May 23, 2025, at the Naha Culture and Arts Theater in Okinawa, a fitting venue as it reflects the society's commitment to fostering advancements in oral health.

This year, three distinguished professors received the award: Professor Keisuke Nakajima from Kyushu Dental University, Professor Hiroshi Nakaya from the Nippon Dental University Hospital, and Professor Kazuyuki Noguchi from Kagoshima University. Each of them has significantly contributed to the development of the Japanese Society of Periodontology since joining in 1985, serving in various capacities such as board members and committee chairs.

During the award ceremony, the recipients received commemorative plaques and the SUNSTAR Award Penguin Trophy, accompanied by a cash prize. The presentations were made by Nobuo Yoshinari, President of the Japanese Society of Periodontology, and Takashi Yoshimura, Executive Officer of the SUNSTAR Group.

The SUNSTAR Award was established in 2001 and has been awarded 24 times, acknowledging researchers who have made substantial contributions to the society's mission and the broader field of periodontology. SUNSTAR expresses its commitment to furthering the study of periodontal disease, educating the next generation of practitioners and enhancing clinical outcomes through such recognition programs.

Remarks from the Awardees

Professor Keisuke Nakajima

On receiving the SUNSTAR Award for 2024, Professor Nakajima expressed profound gratitude and honor for being recognized amidst significant contributions of his peers. He has served the society in various capacities including board member and officer over his 40 years of involvement. His work on the Certification Committee and Specialty Committee stands out in his memory as formative experiences, allowing meaningful discussions around the certification process, which ultimately aims to improve the standards of periodontal care across Japan.

He acknowledges the still-present challenges in improving nationwide oral health and expresses hope to continue supporting the society's goals, despite stepping back from frontline activities.

Professor Hiroshi Nakaya

Professor Nakaya also shared his thoughts of appreciation upon receiving the award. He emphasized that his activities within the Japanese Society of Periodontology have been integral to his development throughout his 40 years as a dental professional. His leadership in committees focused on certification highlights the progress made in ensuring effective periodontal treatments which benefit both patients and aspiring dentists.

He expresses a desire to continue contributing to the society and the advancement of dental healthcare in Japan, signaling his long-term commitment despite changes in his active role.

Professor Kazuyuki Noguchi

Finally, Professor Noguchi conveyed his heartfelt thanks for being honored with the award. His long journey through involvement in various committees, including serving as the Chair of theTerminology Committee, has been key to establishing important educational materials for future practitioners.

He plans to continue to support the development of periodontal research and education as an honorary member, with appreciation towards all those who have guided him along the way.

Future Endeavors of SUNSTAR

In addition to the SUNSTAR Award, SUNSTAR has been involved in promoting emerging talent through the Young Investigator Award since 2015, highlighting groundbreaking research from young scholars in periodontology during academic meetings. This initiative reflects SUNSTAR's larger vision of enhancing oral health and overall wellbeing, shaping a healthier future for all. Going forward, SUNSTAR remains committed to delivering relevant information and products that promote both oral and overall health as part of its mission to extend people's healthy lifespans.

For additional information on the SUNSTAR awards and initiatives, please visit the official websites of the Japanese Society of Periodontology.