The Birth of the Brazilian Society of Digestive Endoscopy (SOBED): A Historical Account

It’s a common notion in Brazilian culture that we lack a sense of history, but what about the history of the Brazilian Society of Digestive Endoscopy (SOBED)? How did it come into being, and what motivated its creation?

As someone who was involved in the foundation of SOBED, I felt compelled to share its story, highlighting the key milestones, principles, and people involved in its creation. I shared my plans with two former presidents, Ramiro Mascarenhas and the late Joo Carlos Andreolli, who readily supported my initiative.

Despite my best efforts, I was unable to gather the necessary documentation during their tenures. However, I’m proud to share the history of SOBED, an entity built on fundamental principles, including:

Representing Endoscopists

• Collaborating with medical societies, both in Brazil and abroad, to promote digestive endoscopy.

Promoting the Specialty

• Supporting the development of training centers to produce qualified and respected professionals.
• Organizing congresses, courses, and live demonstrations to update knowledge and skills.

Establishing Standards

• Evaluating the qualification of new specialists through competitions to obtain the title of specialist in digestive endoscopy.

Benefiting the Population

• Disseminating programs that benefit the population, adhering to the ethical principles that guide medicine.

This historical account is now available in a comprehensive book, published by Thieme Revinter in 2018. The 162-page hardcover book provides a detailed insight into the foundation and growth of SOBED, making it a valuable resource for medical professionals and anyone interested in the history of digestive endoscopy in Brazil.