About IAS

Established in 1978, the International Atherosclerosis Society is a global network of physicians and scientists who collaborate to develop mission-centered programming that spans geographical and generational boundaries. 

While IAS counts many of the world’s leading atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease experts among its membership, the society’s community also includes global authorities and physicians from related disciplines as well as allied health professionals, fellows, students and partners within the policy and patient advocacy communities.  

The society represents more than 40,000 health care providers and stakeholders in more than 93 countries. More than 93 professional societies maintain an active membership in IAS, which represents them via the World Heart Federation. IAS is organized as a 501(c)(3) educational public charity with headquarters in Washington, D.C. 

Strategic Priorities

Through its global partnerships and member societies, IAS works toward the following strategic priorities:

• Driving the translation of today’s science into tomorrow’s clinical practice through multidisciplinary collaborations, educational programs and implementation projects 
• Transcending national boundaries to promote cardiometabolic health 
• Addressing unmet needs and access barriers to improve clinical practice worldwide 
• Investing in the next generation of physician scientists 
• Providing educational programs and thought leadership that inform practice and policy 
• Empowering health care providers to become better advocates on behalf of their patients 
• Convening members and partners at regional and international meetings, including the IAS triennial congress. 

Triennial Congress: The International Symposium on Atherosclerosis

Starting in 1966, even ahead of the establishment of IAS, founding members of an International Program Committee gathered to promote at an international level the advancement of science and teaching related to the field of atherosclerosis. The earliest meetings were in Athens, Greece (1966); Chicago, USA (1969); Berlin, Germany (1973); and Tokyo, Japan (1976).  

The triennial congress, called the International Symposium on Atherosclerosis (ISA),  continues to bring together thousands of physicians and stakeholders from around the world every three years. The 21^st edition of ISA is planned for 20-22 October 2027 in Santiago, Chile – the first congress to be held in South America.  

Global Leadership

The society is led by a 26-member Board of Directors, which consists of a five-member executive committee, nine elected members at large, eight appointed members at large and the chairs of each regional federation.  

In addition to the Board of Directors, IAS maintains four regional federations that are integral to advancing the society’s mission and are designed to facilitate and broaden IAS activities at a regional level.  

• Africa and Middle East
• Americas
• Asia-Pacific
• Europe