#Canada #Toronto #Obesity Care #Jaime Ponce #IFSO

Dr. Jaime Ponce Takes the Helm of IFSO

On September 9, 2026, during the closing ceremony of the XXIX IFSO World Congress held in Toronto, Dr. Jaime Ponce, a distinguished figure in the field of metabolic and bariatric surgery, officially took over as the president of the International Federation for the Surgery and Other Therapies for Obesity (IFSO). Dr. Ponce succeeds Dr. Khaled Gawdat from Egypt, who received accolades for his unwavering commitment and impactful contributions to the federation and the broader global community dealing with obesity care.

"It is a tremendous honour to serve as President of IFSO," expressed Dr. Ponce, reflecting on the responsibility and prestige of his new role. He added, "I am deeply grateful to Dr. Khaled Gawdat for his leadership and commitment to our Federation. I look forward to building upon his work and collaborating with our Executive Board, national societies, healthcare professionals, patients, and partners worldwide."

Dr. Ponce aims to enhance IFSO’s status as a principal entity for comprehensive obesity care. By merging metabolic and bariatric surgery with obesity medicine, bariatric endoscopy, and an integrated health model, he envisions a coordinated approach founded on solid evidence and lifelong treatment strategies.

A Broader Vision for Obesity Care

In his inaugural address, Dr. Ponce highlighted the complex and chronic nature of obesity, categorizing it as a progressive disease that necessitates a multi-faceted approach. He emphasized that single treatments are insufficient for the nuances of obesity.

"Lifestyle interventions, obesity management medications, endoscopic therapies, and metabolic and bariatric surgery should work together to provide the right treatment for the right patient at the right time," Dr. Ponce stated, underlining the necessity of combining various modalities in patient care.

His strategic priorities focus on several key areas essential for elevating the standard of care in obesity management:
1. Advancing Research and Education: Emphasizing the need for ongoing scientific research and education within the field to foster innovation and improve clinical outcomes.
2. Developing Practical Tools: Creating tools and consensus guidance to facilitate the implementation of integrated care pathways.
3. Expanding Global Training: Training healthcare professionals around the world to ensure consistent standards in obesity care.
4. Promoting Combination Therapies: Encouraging the use of diverse therapeutic approaches tailored to individual patient needs.
5. Improving Access: Striving for equitable access to obesity treatment across different socio-economic groups to reduce health disparities.
6. Reducing Stigma: Launching public education campaigns that highlight the complexities of obesity while promoting understanding and empathy.

Collaborative Efforts Ahead

Dr. Ponce firmly believes in the necessity of evolution—both of the IFSO and of obesity care practices themselves:

"Our Federation must evolve with the science and the changing needs of our patients," he stated, urging a united front across medical specialties and geographical regions to improve outcomes for patients globally.

With an impressive background spanning over 25 years in metabolic and bariatric surgery and obesity medicine, Dr. Ponce has previously served as president of both the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) and the IFSO North American Chapter. His extensive expertise positions him well to lead IFSO in facing the challenges that lie ahead.

About IFSO

The International Federation for the Surgery and Other Therapies for Obesity (IFSO) is a worldwide scientific body dedicated to leading advancements in clinical care, research, education, and training pertaining to obesity treatment. With Dr. Ponce at the forefront, IFSO is poised to strengthen its role as a global leader in combating obesity and enhancing the quality of care for affected individuals.

For more information about IFSO and its initiatives, visit www.ifso.com.