Development of gastroenterology in Bangladesh.

Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and liver are very common in Bangladesh. Gastroenterology as a dedicated specialty was initiated in 1977 at the Institute of Postgraduate Medicine and Research in Dhaka. One more centre was set up later and these centres are providing specialized diagnostic and therapeutic services. These centres are also imparting training in endoscopy and 49 endoscopists trained so far are providing services in 22 centres around the country. Clinical gastroenterologists are also being trained in a 3 year Master's degree course and three specialists have already completed this. A Gastroenterology Society was formed in 1988 and has held three national scientific conferences and 20 regional meetings. Research in special problems of the country has also been initiated and work on aspects of peptic ulcer disease, chronic calcific pancreatitis and chronic viral hepatitis has been conducted. The demand for gastrointestinal services is high and the specialty has attracted a good number of young doctors. Gastroenterology is likely to grow in size and quality in Bangladesh.