I am pleased to announce that the 67th Annual Spring Meeting of the Japanese Society of Clinical Cytology will be held over three days from Friday, June 12 to Sunday, June 14, 2026, at PACIFICO Yokohama North. I am Etsuko Miyagi from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Yokohama City University, and I have been appointed as the Chair of this academic meeting.

With the aim of showcasing the international character of Yokohama City, we are preparing a comprehensive program that includes educational lectures, symposia, and workshops. In addition, major sessions will be made available later through on-demand streaming.

The theme of this meeting is “Let’s create the Future of Clinical Cytology.” This theme reflects a positive outlook on the advancement of cytological diagnostics, such as the introduction of primary HPV testing as a cervical cancer screening method, the evolution of genetic analysis of cancer cells, and the impending practical application of AI diagnostics. It also encapsulates my personal vision and passion for the future of the field. As for cervical cancer screening, my area of expertise, Yokohama City has met the necessary conditions for implementing primary HPV testing—including the adoption of liquid-based cytology and the development of a data system—and has officially introduced primary HPV testing as of January 2025. I hope to share the progress of this implementation during the conference. As members of this society, we are called upon to further enhance the value of cytology that we have built over the years, while also adapting to new technologies. I sincerely hope this academic meeting will contribute to that endeavor.

In addition, to help children, who carry the future, gain an understanding of the cells as essential element of science, we are planning to hold a special public outreach event titled “Cell Art Cruise in YOKOHAMA,” an evolved version of the society’s current popular event, the “Cell Art Exhibition.” This event will be led by our young committee members.

We warmly invite many of JSCC members to join us in Yokohama to gain the latest knowledge in clinical cytology and to enjoy not only the academic sessions and exhibits but also the city’s charms—its scenery, culinary delights, and vibrant culture. We look forward to welcoming you to what promises to be a rewarding and memorable academic meeting.