The North American Iranian Radiological Society (NAIRS) was established through the efforts of a number of radiologists in 1991*.  It is officially registered and licensed as a non-profit organization in the United States.

In its bylaws, the goals of the society have been cited as 1) “to advance the science and art of radiology and biomedical imaging through an educational non-profit society of radiologists and individuals in related fields of medicine and science”; 2) “to bring together radiologists and individuals in related fields to improve the understanding, research and teaching of radiology, and to promote closer fellowship and exchange of ideas”; 3) “to provide meetings for the presentation and discussion of research papers and dissemination of knowledge”; and 4) “to provide continuing education through refresher courses.”  Concomitantly, another major goal of the society has been to establish close collaboration with the Iranian Radiological Society (IRS) to support their scientific assemblies, annual congresses, and other scientific symposia.

The close collaborations that began in 1989 (even prior to the official establishment of NAIRS) have continued since, culminating in more than fifteen scientific meetings in Iran.  NAIRS has functioned as a co-organizer of the annual radiology congresses by contacting IRS officers and invited guests abroad and coordinating arrangements.

NAIRS has subscribed to five major radiology journals and periodicals for the IRS during these years.  On many occasions, books, slides, catheters, instruments and other imaging accessories have been donated by NAIRS members to IRS, and to different departments, universities and other medical institutions in Iran.

NAIRS has nearly two hundred members, including Associate Members and Members in-Training.  The society has been fortunate to expand its membership to a number of Iranian radiologic colleagues in Canada and Europe.  Subspecialty committees on neuroradiology, interventional neuroradiology, head and neck radiology, thoracic radiology, breast imaging, abdominal radiology, musculoskeletal radiology, pediatric radiology, vascular interventional radiology, nuclear medicine, and radiation oncology have also been formed within the society.  The members of each of these subspecialty committees are prepared to conduct postgraduate courses and deliver lectures in Iran when they are called upon by NAIRS and IRS.

Many young capable Iranian American radiologists have entered the practice of radiology in the United States, Canada, and Europe during the past two decades.  NAIRS is considered as their home base allowing them to flourish and acquainting them with their fellow Iranians.  NAIRS functions as a liaison between this new generation of bright physicians and their homeland.

The members of NAIRS sincerely hope to continue their professional and academic support of IRS and also benefit from the experiences of their colleagues in Iran.

On behalf of the members of the North American Iranian Radiological Society, it is my pleasure to extend our warm wishes to our respected colleagues in the Iranian Radiological Society for their continued success and stronger relationship.

Seyed A. Rooholamini, M.D.

President, NAIRS (2001-2002)

* NAIRS FOUNDING MEMBERS (In Alphabetical Order):

Houtan Adib, M.D., Washington, D.C., U.S.A.

Akbar Bonakdarpour, M.D., Philadelphia, PA, U.S.A.

Hassan Fateh, M.D., Washington, D.C., U.S.A.

Seyed A. Rooholamini, M.D., Los Angeles, CA, U.S.A.

Hooshang Taybi, M.D., San Francisco, CA, U.S.A.

Issa Yaghmai, M.D., Los Angeles, CA, U.S.A.

NAIRS acknowledges the vital role of the late Dr. Issa Yaghmai in the establishment of the Society through his vision, dedication, compassion, and outstanding leadership.