The Lancet Haematology publishes landmark Commission on Global Female Health and Haematology at ISTH 2026 Congress

Commission launches as ISTH unveils its most comprehensive Women's Health initiative to date, including the Women's Health Hub, a lifespan approach to bleeding and clotting disorders, and the Society's first-ever global regulatory session.

PARIS, France, July 13, 2026 — The Lancet Haematology today published a new Commission on Global Female Health and Haematology, a multidisciplinary international collaboration that examines the unique hematologic health challenges faced by women and girls around the world and outlines recommendations for improving outcomes.

The Commission launches in conjunction with the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) 2026 Congress in Paris, where more than 6,000 experts from around the world gather to advance research and clinical care in thrombosis and hemostasis.

The Lancet Commission on Global Female Health and Haematology arrives at a pivotal moment for women's health, as growing recognition of longstanding disparities in the diagnosis, treatment and research of bleeding and thrombotic disorders drives global calls for action.

The launch coincides with the ISTH's expanding commitment to women's health through the newly established ISTH Women's Health Hub, a comprehensive global initiative dedicated to advancing education, collaboration, research and advocacy for bleeding and clotting disorders across every stage of a woman's life. This commitment will also be reflected at the ISTH 2026 Congress through the Society's first-ever regulatory session, convening international regulatory leaders to explore collaborative approaches to strengthening evidence generation and improving care for women worldwide.

"This Commission is driven by a recognition that women's hematologic health deserves greater visibility, investment and action," said Bethany Samuelson-Bannow, M.D., lead author of the Commission and a member of the ISTH. "By bringing together experts from diverse disciplines and regions, our goal is to better understand the factors that shape women's health experiences globally and to provide recommendations that can help drive meaningful improvements in care, research and policy."

The Commission focuses on hematologic health across multiple stages of life, addressing issues ranging from menstruation, reproductive health, pregnancy and aging. It also explores socioeconomic disparities, such as poverty, access to care and social determinants of health influence outcomes for women around the world.

Authors on the Commission include: Bethany Samuelson-Bannow, Luuk J. J. Scheres, Angela Weyand, Maureen K. Baldwin, Jecko Thachil, Maha Othman, Saskia Middeldorp, Maureen Achebe, Rezan Abdul-Kadir, Fionnuala Ní Áinle, Godwin Akaba, Imo Akpan, Homa Ahmadzia, Omolade A. Awodu, Marc Blondon, Kochawan Boonyawat, Munira Borhany, Patricia Casais, Briony Cutts, Veronica Flood, Anat Gafter-Gvili, Patricia Homan, Emily Hoppes, Chandani Kharel, Claudia Khayat, Michelle Lavin, Kinga Malinowski, Kristen Matteson, Jackie Maybin, Lauren Merz, Helen Okoye, Alexandra Robledo, Leslie Skeith, Marni Sommer, Tonye Wokoma and Tahira Zafar.

"The publication of this Commission represents an important milestone for women's health and hematology," said ISTH President Pantep Angchaisuksiri, M.D. "Women experience unique challenges related to bleeding and clotting disorders throughout their lives, yet many aspects of their care remain underrecognized or understudied. This Commission provides an important resource for clinicians, researchers, policymakers and advocates to improve outcomes globally."

The Commission will be highlighted today, July 13, during a special session titled, “Periods, Pregnancy, Post-menopause and Poverty: The Lancet Haematology Commission on Global Female Health and Haematology,” at the ISTH 2026 Congress.

For a deeper exploration of the Commission's findings and recommendations, listen to today's newly released ISTH Pulse Podcast episode featuring several of the Commission's authors as they discuss the report's key insights and implications.

Learn more about the ISTH Women’s Health Hub at www.isthwomenshealth.org. Learn more about the Commission here.

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About the ISTH
Founded in 1969, the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) is the leading global medical and scientific organization dedicated to advancing the understanding, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to thrombosis and hemostasis. The ISTH engages a global community of more than 21,000 clinicians, researchers, educators and healthcare professionals across more than 120 countries working to advance science, improve patient care and address critical issues in thrombosis, bleeding disorders and vascular health. Through scientific and educational programs, peer-reviewed publications, clinical guidance and guidelines, expert committees, global partnerships, meetings and congresses, advocacy initiatives and World Thrombosis Day, the ISTH helps shape research, policy and practice worldwide. Learn more at www.isth.org.

Media contact
Barbara Krolak
ISTH Marketing Manager
Barbara_Krolak@isth.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ISTH launches women's health hub, expanding global access to resources for bleeding and clotting disorders across the lifespan

Launch follows Society's first-ever regulatory session and builds on growing global focus on women's health, policy and equitable care.

PARIS, France, July 8, 2026 — The International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) announces the official launch of the ISTH Women's Health Hub, a new global resource designed to improve awareness, education and access to information on bleeding and clotting disorders affecting women and girls throughout every stage of life.

The launch comes ahead of the ISTH 2026 Congress taking place from July 11-15 in Paris. It coincides with the Society's inaugural regulatory session dedicated to women’s health, which will be held on July 12 at the Congress. Representatives from leading regulatory agencies, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety (AGES) and Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) will discuss opportunities to advance care, research and regulatory collaboration for women worldwide.

Available at www.isthwomenshealth.org, the ISTH Women's Health Hub serves as a comprehensive resource for clinicians, researchers, patients, caregivers and advocates seeking trusted information on conditions that disproportionately affect women, including bleeding disorders, thrombosis, pregnancy-related complications, heavy menstrual bleeding, menopause and other critical health issues.

The initiative builds upon the ISTH's recently released Women's Health Public Policy Agenda and reflects the Society's growing commitment to addressing longstanding gaps in awareness, diagnosis, treatment and research affecting women and girls.

Despite significant advances in thrombosis and hemostasis, women continue to experience disparities in care across the lifespan. Many bleeding and clotting disorders remain underrecognized, undertreated or misdiagnosed, often resulting in delays in diagnosis, unnecessary suffering and poorer health outcomes.

"The Women's Health Hub is an important step toward ensuring that women and girls receive the attention, research and evidence-based care they deserve," said Donna DiMichele, M.D., co-chair of the ISTH Global Public Affairs Committee. "For too long, many conditions affecting women have been overlooked or inadequately addressed. By bringing together educational resources, scientific information and practical tools in one place, we hope to empower patients, support healthcare professionals and accelerate progress toward more equitable care worldwide."

Designed to support women from childhood to advanced age, the Women’s Health Hub addresses topics spanning pediatric bleeding disorders, adolescence, menstruation, reproductive health, pregnancy, postpartum care, menopause and healthy aging. The resource repository also highlights emerging research, educational opportunities, advocacy initiatives and expert guidance developed by the global thrombosis and hemostasis community.

"Women's health is not a niche issue. It is a global health priority," said Flora Peyvandi, M.D., Ph.D., co-chair of the ISTH Global Public Affairs Committee. "The goal of the Women’s Health Hub is to offer a platform that connects science, education, advocacy and patient needs. Our goal is to ensure that women everywhere have access to the knowledge, resources and support necessary to achieve better health outcomes."

The Women's Health Hub also serves as a foundation for future ISTH initiatives, including educational programs, advocacy activities, policy engagement and global awareness campaigns. The Society will continue expanding the platform with new content, resources and opportunities for collaboration in the years ahead.

For more information, visit www.isthwomenshealth.org or visit www.isth.org.

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About the ISTH Women’s Health Hub
The ISTH Women's Health Hub is an initiative of the ISTH Global Public Affairs Committee and has been developed in collaboration with leading international medical societies, patient advocacy organizations and public health partners committed to advancing care for women and girls affected by bleeding and clotting disorders. View all collaborative partners here.

About the ISTH
Founded in 1969, the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) is the leading global medical and scientific organization dedicated to advancing the understanding, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to thrombosis and hemostasis. The ISTH convenes and supports a global community of more than 21,000 clinicians, researchers, educators and healthcare professionals across more than 120 countries to advance science, improve patient care and drive progress in thrombosis and bleeding disorders worldwide. Through its scientific leadership, education, peer-reviewed publications, clinical guidance, expert committees, global partnerships, advocacy initiatives, meetings and congresses, and World Thrombosis Day, the ISTH serves as a trusted international voice for the field. Learn more at www.isth.org.

Media contact
Barbara Krolak
ISTH Marketing Manager
Barbara_Krolak@isth.org

More than 6,000 clinicians and scientists will convene in Paris for world-class science, collaboration and late-breaking research

CHARLOTTE, N.C., United States, July 1, 2026 — The International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) announces that it will welcome more than 6,000 attendees to the ISTH 2026 Congress in Paris, France, marking the highest in-person attendance at an ISTH Congress in more than a decade.

The milestone is accompanied by another record-setting achievement: the Congress scientific program includes more than 3,100 abstract submissions, the highest number received by ISTH in more than 10 years. Together, these indicators reflect growing global engagement in thrombosis, bleeding disorders and vascular health, as well as increasing demand for scientific collaboration and education.

The ISTH 2026 Congress will take place from July 11-15 at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles. The Congress brings together clinicians, researchers, scientists, educators and industry leaders from around the world for five days of scientific discovery, collaboration and innovation in thrombosis, hemostasis and vascular biology. Attendees will experience a comprehensive scientific program featuring cutting-edge research, educational sessions, networking opportunities and discussions focused on advancing patient care and improving outcomes worldwide.

“The ISTH 2026 Congress is excited to convene in Paris, which provides an outstanding setting for scientific exchange and international collaboration,” said Walter Ageno, M.D., Chair of the ISTH Annual Congress Planning Committee. “We look forward to welcoming colleagues from around the world to what is probably the most dynamic and diverse gathering in thrombosis and hemostasis.”

The ISTH 2026 Congress will feature hundreds of oral presentations, poster sessions, educational offerings and a robust exhibition hall. Among the most anticipated highlights will be the presentation of late-breakthrough abstracts sharing new data from major clinical trials and breakthrough studies. The late-breakthrough program features emerging clinical trial results and first disclosures of important scientific findings that may influence future standards of care. Presentations will offer attendees an early look at important scientific developments that have the potential to influence future research and clinical practice.

The late-breakthrough abstracts will be presented in two concurrent sessions on Sunday, July 12, at 11:15 a.m. CEST. Full details of late-breakthrough abstracts are embargoed until the time of presentation, after which they will become available in the ISTH 2026 Program.

The following late-breakthrough abstracts will be presented at ISTH 2026:

Late-breakthrough abstracts I: Clinical trials and innovation in thrombosis

• 12-Lipoxygenase Inhibition with VLX-1005 in Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia
- Presenting author: Steven McKenzie (United States)

• Efficacy and safety of SHR-2004 for venous thromboembolism prevention after elective total knee arthroplasty: results from a randomized, double-blind, active-controlled phase 3 study
- Presenting author: Dongxing Xie (China)

• Extended Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis Comparing Rivaroxaban and Aspirin to Aspirin Alone Following Total Hip or Total Knee Arthroplasty - The EPCAT III Study
- Presenting author: Sudeep Shivakumar (Canada)

Late-breakthrough abstracts II: Clinical trials and innovation in bleeding

• Marstacimab prophylaxis in pediatric participants with hemophilia A or B with or without inhibitors: interim results from the phase 3 BASIS KIDS trial
- Presenting author: Gili Kenet (Israel)

• Long-acting prophylaxis through targeted activated protein C modulation: phase IIb results of SR604 in hemophilia
- Presenting author: Lijun Xia (United States)

• Inno8, the first orally administered factor VIII mimetic shows favorable safety, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic properties in healthy male participants
- Presenting author: Christian Keicher (Germany)

In addition, registered members of the press are invited to attend the ISTH 2026 Press Conference on Monday, July 13, at 1 p.m. CEST. The Press Conference will feature exclusive commentary from key leaders and presenting authors.

Visit the ISTH 2026 Press Room for more information about press registration, media policies and embargo information.

To learn more about the ISTH 2026 Congress, visit www.isthcongress.org.

About the ISTH
Founded in 1969, the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) is the leading global medical and scientific organization dedicated to advancing the understanding, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to thrombosis and hemostasis. The ISTH engages a global community of more than 21,000 clinicians, researchers, educators and healthcare professionals across more than 120 countries working to advance science, improve patient care and address critical issues in thrombosis, bleeding disorders and vascular health. Through scientific and educational programs, peer-reviewed publications, clinical guidance and guidelines, expert committees, global partnerships, meetings and congresses, advocacy initiatives and World Thrombosis Day, the ISTH helps shape research, policy and practice worldwide. Learn more at www.isth.org.

Media contact
Barbara Krolak
ISTH Marketing Manager
Barbara_Krolak@isth.org

Charlotte, N.C., United States, June 24, 2026 — The International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) announces the recipients of the 2026 Fundamental Research Career Development Awards. The awards are given to early career investigators who have demonstrated excellence in research.

The Fundamental Research Career Develop Awards aim to strengthen fundamental research by supporting innovative ideas of the next generation of scientists in the field by recognizing a high potential to develop independent research careers, as well as fostering active commitment of early career investigators to the ISTH.

The award winners each receive an award of $50,000 USD for research in their respective category. Funds are used by applicants to support research, training and/or collaborations.

The 2026 recipients of the Fundamental Research Career Development Awards are as follows:

Adela Constantinescu Bercu, Ph.D. (United Kingdom)
• Project title: “Targeting vascular abnormalities to correct gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with type 2A VWD”
• Institution: Imperial College London

Johnathan Morris, Ph.D. (United States)
• Project title: “Mechanistic dissection of FVIIIA-FIXa binding affinity in FVIII-associated venous thrombosis”
• Institution: Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

Julia Tilburg, Ph.D. (the Netherlands)
• Project title: "Mapping the thromboinflammatory bone marrow: Spatial and functional analysis of megakaryocyte niche interactions”
• Institution: Sanquin Research

Learn more about the Fundamental Research Career Development Awards here.

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About the ISTH

Founded in 1969, the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) is the leading global medical and scientific organization dedicated to advancing the understanding, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to thrombosis and hemostasis. The ISTH convenes and supports a global community of more than 21,000 clinicians, researchers, educators and healthcare professionals across more than 120 countries to advance science, improve patient care and drive progress in thrombosis and bleeding disorders worldwide. Through its scientific leadership, education, peer-reviewed publications, clinical guidance, expert committees, global partnerships, advocacy initiatives, meetings and congresses, and World Thrombosis Day, the ISTH serves as a trusted international voice for the field. Learn more at www.isth.org.

Media contact
Barbara Krolak
ISTH Marketing Manager
Barbara_Krolak@isth.org

Charlotte, N.C., United States, June 2, 2026 — The International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) announces the appointment of five members to the Council Class of 2032.

Members of the ISTH Council oversee the development and implementation of the organization’s strategic plan. They focus on prioritizing objectives and setting the policy framework in alignment with the Society’s mission, core values, and diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.

They also utilize their broad expertise, leadership experience and global perspectives to serve as ambassadors for the Society, fostering engagement and advancing the visibility of the ISTH and its programs throughout the international thrombosis and hemostasis community.

The members of the ISTH Council Class of 2032 are as follows:

• Suzanne Cannegieter, M.D., Ph.D., Professor of Clinical Epidemiology, Leiden University Medical Center (the Netherlands)

• Kathleen Freson, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Leuven (Belgium)

• Beverley Hunt, M.D., Professor of Thrombosis and Haemostasis, King’s College, London; Consultant, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust (United Kingdom)

• Grégoire Le Gal, M.D., Ph.D., Professor, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa (Canada)

• Johnny Mahlangu, M.B.B.Ch., M. Med., Academic Head and Chief Specialist, Department of Molecular Medicine and Haematology, National Health Laboratory Service and the University of the Witwatersrand (South Africa)

“Each of the new ISTH Council members brings exceptional scientific expertise, leadership skills and a strong commitment to advancing the Society’s mission,” said ISTH President Pantep Angchaisuksiri, M.D. “We look forward to their contributions as the ISTH continues to expand its global impact in research, education and patient care.”

The Council Class of 2032 will participate in their first Council meeting at the ISTH 2026 Congress in Paris, France, where the Council Class of 2026 will be rotating off following completion of their Council term.

Learn more about the ISTH at www.isth.org.

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About the ISTH

Founded in 1969, the ISTH is the leading international medical and scientific professional organization dedicated to advancing the understanding, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to thrombosis and hemostasis. The ISTH professional membership community includes more than 7,500 clinicians, researchers and educators from more than 120 countries working together to advance science and improve clinical care around the world. Among its highly-regarded activities and initiatives are education and standardization programs, research activities, meetings and congresses, clinical and laboratory practice guidance and guidelines, peer-reviewed publications, expert committees and World Thrombosis Day on 13 October. Learn more at www.isth.org.

Media contact

Barbara Krolak
ISTH Marketing Manager
Barbara_Krolak@isth.org

The ISTH Scientific and Standardization Committee (SSC) is a permanent committee of the Society, serving as the scientific working arm that handles the ongoing, scientific work of the Society.

The SSC is now accepting applications for Subcommittee Co-Chair openings. There are currently 40 Co-Chair openings within the SSC’s 21 subcommittees. The application deadline is July 31, 2026.

Click here to learn more and submit an application.

Each SSC Subcommittee is led by a Chair, and up to eight Co-Chairs, who have significant expertise in the Subcommittee's area of interest. Two Co-Chair positions are reserved for an early career ISTH member and a Reach-the-World member to foster a diverse and inclusive community within the Subcommittees.

The Chair and Co-Chairs are responsible for overseeing the Subcommittee's projects on standardization, nomenclature and guidance. In addition to these nine Subcommittee members, many other experts contribute to the projects and work of each Subcommittee.

Please note: Co-Chairs must be active ISTH members and are appointed to a 2-year term with the option to serve an additional 2 years, for a total of four years.

According to the SSC Rules and Guidelines, an ISTH member may only serve on one SSC Subcommittee at a time.

View the available openings and apply here.

The International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) announced Donald M. Arnold, M.D.C.M., M.Sc., from Canada as the 2026 recipient of the Harold R. Roberts Award.

The ISTH presents this award to individuals who have used their time and talents to support the mission of the Scientific and Standardization Committee (SSC) that goes beyond what is expected over a significant period of time.

Across nearly three decades in medicine, Arnold has moved between bedside care, clinical trials and international collaboration in the pursuit of uncovering the missing mechanisms behind complex platelet and bleeding disorders.

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Donald M. Arnold asks questions that many others might consider too difficult or too uncertain to answer.

Why do some patients with immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) suddenly bleed? Why are others misdiagnosed? How can we balance blood transfusion products to improve outcomes and ensure sustainability?

Those unanswered questions have become the driving force behind Arnold’s prestigious career as a scientist, clinician, mentor and international expert. For Arnold, however, the recognition is less about reaching a destination and more about continuing the search.

“ITP research keeps me going because we still don’t know much about it,” Arnold said. “There are a lot of people before me who have been trying to crack the case. I feel like we’re missing something, and I like to think our team is close to figuring that out.”

Early foundations in Canada

Arnold grew up in Canada and showed an early interest for science and health starting in high school. That interest led him into a pre-medical program that allowed an accelerated path toward medicine.

Arnold earned his medical degree from McGill University in 1997. While those years provided an important scientific and clinical foundation, he recalled that a turning point came later during his residency training in internal medicine.

Arnold began a new project that focused on prevention of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in patients undergoing surgery. Night after night, Arnold combed through stacks of medical records, collecting data and trying to make sense of the outcomes.

“I slogged through a whole bunch of medical charts in the medical records department and did what I had to do and pull out all kinds of information,” Arnold said. “There was a fair number of patients who were not getting the prophylaxis that they needed, and they ended up getting blood clots. That started my career journey in thrombosis and hemostasis.”

Under the mentorship of Susan Kahn, Arnold began to understand how this type of research could directly improve patient care. He also credited Kahn with teaching him how to take his research to a new level.

“Dr. Kahn helped me figure out how to make my research and science compelling,” he said. “It was a lot of learning, not just medicine, but also how to market your work. You have to be able to communicate why it matters.”

The McMaster influence

Arnold later completed a master’s degree in clinical epidemiology at McMaster University in 2006, where he found himself surrounded by influential mentors who demonstrated how clinical medicine and research could work hand in hand.

“There was no intentionality of doing both,” he said of becoming both a physician and researcher. “It was a series of fortunate events coming together.”

He credited mentors Deborah Cook, Morris Blajchman and John Kelton with helping shape his philosophy toward medicine and research.

“One of the important foundations of doing good research is understanding the patient,” he said.

Rather than separating laboratory science from patient care, Arnold embraced a translational approach that continuously moved between the clinic, the laboratory and clinical trials. He learned not only how to ask meaningful scientific questions, but also how to communicate and advocate for the importance of that work.

Among the many conditions Arnold encountered, immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) quickly captured his attention.

ITP is a relatively rare autoimmune platelet disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks platelets, increasing the risk of bleeding. Despite years of research, many aspects of the disease remain poorly understood.

“What’s quite incredible about ITP is that we don’t really know what causes it,” Arnold said. “We still don’t have a good grasp on the mechanism, and as a result, we’re missing a diagnostic test. In fact, people come to the clinic and they're misdiagnosed about 15% of the time.”

Arnold and his colleagues launched an ITP patient registry and biorepository to better understand the disease. Today, the program has accumulated data and samples from approximately 1,200 patients.

The work has also highlighted major challenges in diagnosis and classification, and the team is focused on harmonizing the process for data collection across centers. He also noted that there is interest from academia and industry partners to understand how and why this disease happens to patients and its impact on patients’ lives.

“There have been many people before me who have studied ITP and tried to dissect it and understand it, but they haven't really succeeded in doing it yet, he said. “I'm determined to crack the code of ITP.”

Building research networks during a crisis

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Arnold helped lead one of Canada’s largest and most ambitious transfusion medicine trials.

As questions mounted globally about whether convalescent plasma could effectively treat hospitalized COVID-19 patients, some countries moved quickly to use the therapy broadly, but Canada took a different approach and decided to “study this in a rigorous way,” he recalled.

Working alongside co-principal investigator Jeannie Callum, Arnold helped launch the CONCOR-1 trial, a national study evaluating convalescent plasma in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Within just 18 months, the trial enrolled close to 1,000 patients across Canada, which was a remarkable feat during a rapidly evolving public health crisis.

“Everything during that time was on fast forward and over-the-top intense,” Arnold said.

Ultimately, the study showed that convalescent plasma did not improve outcomes for hospitalized patients with COVID-19. But Arnold said the most important result extended far beyond the data itself. The effort created a national network of engaged clinical trial centers capable of conducting complex transfusion medicine studies across Canada.

“We established multiple centers across Canada that showed an ability and an interest to enroll patients in clinical trials,” he said. “We certainly didn’t want to give up that incredible opportunity.”

That momentum led to the development of the Canadian Transfusion Trials Group, which Arnold co-founded to continue advancing collaborative research in transfusion medicine.

Since its start in 2022, the network has launched studies examining intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), platelet transfusions in critically-ill patients and sex-matched red blood cell transfusions.

“Those types of clinical trial questions really would not be able to be answered without this large infrastructure ready to go,” Arnold said.

Today, the organization continues to expand, bringing together investigators, trainees, blood providers and industry collaborators from across the country.

Collaborating to connect science with clinical practice

Arnold said he appreciates the global collaboration and networking that the ISTH offers.

“All of a sudden, the world becomes a much smaller place,” Arnold said.

Over time, Arnold became increasingly involved in the ISTH Scientific and Standardization Committee (SSC), eventually serving as Co-Chair and then Chair of the SSC Subcommittee on Immune-Mediated Platelet Disorders.

During his leadership, Arnold helped broaden the SSC’s focus beyond bench science alone.

“What we were able to do during that time was shift the SSC from purely basic bench-side work to standardization in clinical areas and bridge the basic element with the clinical element,” he said.

“Throughout my career, I’ve learned that in order to answer some of those fundamental questions, you really need to understand both the basic and clinical sides,” he said. “In the rare instances where you can combine those two things together, incredible things can happen. That's where I have found the most joy in my career.”

The best example is the work Arnold is doing with colleague and collaborator Ishac Nazy, also from McMaster University, who is now the current Chair of the Platelet SSC Subcommittee and incoming SSC Vice Chair.

“Take the blood clotting syndrome post COVID vaccines – VITT. With Ishac’s translational expertise in platelet immunology and my clinical perspective, we were able to identify the molecular characteristics of the VITT antibody and its clinical importance,” he said. “We challenge ourselves to keep asking tough questions in hemostasis and thrombosis at the intersection of clinical and basic science.”

Keeping joy at the forefront

Outside medicine and research, Arnold’s greatest source of pride is his four children, ranging from ages 12 to 23.

“They’re the greatest thing that has happened to me and my wife,” he said. “They teach me a lot, keep me busy and I like to think they keep me young.”

Even outside the lab, curiosity and creativity are an important part of his life. In his free time, Arnold enjoys playing piano and musical theater.

Arnold noted that scientific discovery remains one of the greatest rewards of his career. That curiosity aligns with his advice to younger professionals entering the field.

“Some part of this has to be fun,” he said. “It’s not all going to be fun, but the fun part has to be enough to sustain you. It has to make you want to show up for work the next day.”

At the heart of Arnold’s career is an important perspective about discovery.

“The real joy is when you discover something new and, in that moment, you are the first person in the world to know that piece of truth,” he said. “It’s a pretty powerful feeling to know that truth and then get to share it with the rest of the world.”

3rd Antithrombotic Stewardship Summit and International Networking Session 
Friday, July 10, 15:00-18:00 CEST
*Pre-registration required
• This 3-hour pre-congress event will bring together clinicians, researchers, and healthcare leaders to explore the global need for stewardship, share models in action, and discuss practical strategies to improve the quality, safety, and consistency of antithrombotic care.

Thrombosis and Antithrombotic Therapies SSC Session
Sunday, July 12, 16:30 – 18:30 CEST
• Moderator: Lana Castellucci
• Presenter: Allison Burnett (“Stronger Together: Aligning ISTH and the Anticoagulation Forum for Global Impact”)

Antithrombotic Stewardship Oral Communication Session
Monday July 13, 14:45 – 16:00 CEST
• Moderator: Sabine Eichinger
• Multiple stewardship initiatives presented from across the world

Operationalizing Antithrombosis Stewardship to Reduce Hospital-Acquired Venous Thromboembolism: Impact of a Multimodal, Multidisciplinary Quality Improvement Initiative
Monday, 13 July, 15:45 - 16:00 CEST
• Speaker: Allison Burnett

Poster: Global Perspectives on the Core Elements of Antithrombotic Stewardship
Monday, July 13
• Presenter: Vivien Chen (Australia)

Poster: Anticoagulation Stewardship: Measuring Best Value Direct Oral Anticoagulant Use in the National Health Service in England using OpenPrescribing Hospitals
Monday, July 13
• Presenter: Victoria Speed (United Kingdom)

Poster: Perioperative anticoagulation management in kidney transplantation for dialysis patients receiving apixaban: an anti–Xa–guided stewardship strategy
Monday, July 13
• Presenter: Iria Sanchez Garcia (Spain)

Poster: Global gaps in stewardship for prevention of cancer-associated thrombosis in ambulatory care: a multinational survey
Monday, July 13
• Presenter: Hadley Bortz (Australia)

Poster: Impact of an Acute Care Thrombosis and Hemostasis Stewardship Service over 34 Years: Improved patient care outcomes, cost savings, and discovery of new management approaches across adults and pediatric populations.
Monday, July 13
• Presenter: William Dager (United States)

Dr. Nazy is an internationally recognized leader in platelet immunology. His research focuses on the mechanistic basis of conditions such as heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), vaccine-induced immune thrombocytopenia and thrombosis (VITT), immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). His work has been instrumental in defining how anti–platelet factor 4 (PF4) antibodies drive platelet activation and thrombosis, while also advancing understanding of immune-mediated bleeding platelet disorders such as ITP.

Charles “Chuck” T. Esmon, Ph.D., a longtime ISTH member and influential leader within the field of thrombosis and hemostasis, passed away on May 1, 2026.

Chuck and his wife Naomi joined the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation in 1982, where they made many pioneering discoveries related to thrombosis and hemostasis. Chuck is credited with identifying two proteins on the endothelial blood vessel lining: thrombomodulin and the endothelial cell protein C receptor. His extensive research work often focused on the connection between blood clotting and inflammation. 

To recognize his contributions, the ISTH honored Chuck with the ISTH Robert P. Grant Medal, the highest honor of the Society in 2013. He had previously received the ISTH Distinguished Career Award in 1999 and the ISTH Investigator Recognition Award in 1983. Among many other accolades, he was elected to the National Academy of Sciences in 2002. 

Chuck was preceded in death by Naomi in 2025. The ISTH staff, leadership and members extend their sincere condolences to the Esmon family. 

Annual awards honor top manuscripts submitted by early career investigators

CHARLOTTE, NC, U.S., April 30, 2026 — Research and Practice in Thrombosis and Haemostasis (RPTH), the open-access journal of the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH), announces the recipients of its 2026 Editor’s Awards.

The RPTH Editor’s Awards are awarded to three early career researchers whose submitted articles demonstrate exceptional quality and impact.

The recipients of the 2026 RPTH Editor’s Awards are as follows:

• Cornelia Englisch, M.D., Austria
“Clonal hematopoiesis in patients with cancer and its association with risk of thrombosis and prognosis of disease”

• Steven Humphreys, Ph.D., United Kingdom
“Endothelial cell source dictates the expression and release of fibrinolytic markers in a proinflammatory environment”

• Magdolna Nagy, Ph.D., the Netherlands
“Formation of tight junction-like structures of zonula occludens 2 in platelet–platelet interaction”

“These awards reflect the strength and promise of emerging researchers in our field,” said RPTH Editor-in-Chief Michael Makris, M.D. “This year’s recipients have submitted exceptional scientific work that significantly contributes to advancing thrombosis and hemostasis research.”

A panel of RPTH editors oversee the review and selection of the award winners, who each receive a travel grant and complimentary registration to an ISTH Congress.

To be eligible, candidates must be the first author of a submitted article and a current ISTH member in an early career membership category at the time of submission. Interested authors may indicate their desire to be considered for the award during the manuscript submission process.

Learn more about RPTH at rpthjournal.org.

About the ISTH
Founded in 1969, the ISTH is the leading international medical and scientific professional organization dedicated to advancing the understanding, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to thrombosis and hemostasis. The ISTH professional membership community includes more than 7,000 clinicians, researchers and educators from more than 120 countries working together to advance science and improve clinical care around the world. Among its highly-regarded activities and initiatives are education and standardization programs, research activities, meetings and congresses, clinical and laboratory practice guidance and guidelines, peer-reviewed publications, expert committees and World Thrombosis Day on 13 October. Learn more at www.isth.org.

Media contact:
Barbara Krolak
ISTH Marketing Manager
Barbara_Krolak@isth.org

Awards honor top manuscripts submitted by early career investigators

CHARLOTTE, NC, U.S., April 28, 2026 — The Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis (JTH), the flagship publication of the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH), proudly recognizes six early career investigators as the recipients of the 2026 JTH Editors’ Awards.

The JTH Editors' Awards are awarded in honor of Pier M. Mannucci, the first Editor-in-Chief of JTH. The awards represent the best manuscripts submitted by early career investigators in the field of thrombosis and hemostasis, as selected by a jury of editors. The awards recognize three clinical science manuscript and three basic science manuscripts.

“Recognizing emerging leaders in thrombosis and hemostasis research is an important part of JTH’s mission,” said Ton Lisman, Ph.D., who serves as JTH Editor-in-Chief along with fellow JTH Editor-in-Chief Suzanne Cannegieter, M.D., Ph.D., M.Sc., “This year’s awardees have demonstrated exceptional rigor and innovation in their work, and we are delighted to highlight their contributions to the field.”

The recipients of the 2026 JTH Editors’ Awards are as follows:

• Francis Ayombil, Ph.D., United States (Basic Science Award)
"Basic regions of factor V and tissue factor pathway inhibitor mediate heavy chain and acidic region interactions on factor V revealed by tethered chemical cleavage"

• Amelia Haj, M.D., Ph.D., United States (Clinical Award)
“Loss of function in protein Z (PROZ) is associated with increased risk of ischemic stroke in the UK Biobank”

• Jamie Madrigal, Ph.D., United States (Basic Science Award)
"Mathematical analysis of emicizumab: affinity-driven complex formation and lipid-surface reactions"

• Vicky Mai, M.D., M.Sc., Canada (Clinical Award)
“Performance of clinical decision rules in patients presenting with suspected recurrent venous thromboembolism: a multicenter prospective cohort study”

• Janneke Spiegelenberg, Ph.D. candidate, the Netherlands (Clinical Award)
“Low thrombin inactivation capacity is associated with an increased risk of recurrent ischemic events after ischemic stroke at a young age”

• Beth Webb, Ph.D., United Kingdom (Basic Science Award)
“The critical role of platelet adenylyl cyclase 6 in hemostasis and thrombosis”

The awardees receive a travel grant to an ISTH Congress. To be considered for the award in the future, mark your interest at the time of submission of your manuscript.

Learn more about JTH at www.jthjournal.org.

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About the ISTH
Founded in 1969, the ISTH is the leading international medical and scientific professional organization dedicated to advancing the understanding, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to thrombosis and hemostasis. The ISTH professional membership community includes more than 7,000 clinicians, researchers and educators from more than 120 countries working together to advance science and improve clinical care around the world. Among its highly-regarded activities and initiatives are education and standardization programs, research activities, meetings and congresses, clinical and laboratory practice guidance and guidelines, peer-reviewed publications, expert committees and World Thrombosis Day on 13 October. Learn more at www.isth.org.

Media contact:
Barbara Krolak
ISTH Marketing Manager
Barbara_Krolak@isth.org

• Fireside chat: Navigating as a first-generation graduate
  This session is designed to elevate the voices of first-generation graduates—those who are the first in their families to pursue higher education—and to explore the unique challenges, opportunities, and pathways to success across regions and disciplines. We are looking for individuals who are willing to share their lived experiences, insights, or expertise to help foster a more inclusive and supportive environment within our global community.
• Fireside chat: Parent voices at ISTH: Working parents in research
  This session aims to give voice to working parents across the ISTH community, highlighting the realities of balancing caregiving responsibilities with research, clinical work, and career progression. Through open and honest dialogue, we hope to surface shared experiences and identify opportunities for greater support and inclusion. We welcome individuals who are passionate about this topic and are willing to share their perspectives, experiences, or expertise.
• Recorded interview: Returning to the workforce after family leave
  This conversation builds on the important discussions from the 2025 Congress and is part of an ongoing effort to better understand the challenges individuals face when reentering their careers after time away for family leave. The goal is to share real experiences, highlight global perspectives, and identify ways ISTH can support members navigating this transition. We are looking for individuals who can contribute as speakers or moderators, particularly those with lived experience or expertise in this area.

If you are interested—or know someone who would be a great fit—please email Ericka Robinson, Director of People, Culture & Talent at ericka_robinson@isth.org or Amelia Brown, People & Business Operations Specialist at amelia_brown@isth.org. 

Deadline to submit interest: May 15, 2026

Award spotlights Arnold’s contributions to the ISTH Scientific and Standardization Committee

Charlotte, N.C., United States, April 21, 2026 —The International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) announces that Donald M. Arnold, M.D.C.M., M.Sc., is the 2026 recipient of the ISTH Harold R. Roberts Award.

The ISTH presents this award to individuals who have used their time and talents to support the mission of the Scientific and Standardization Committee (SSC) that goes beyond what is expected over a significant period of time. The SSC develops and recommends standards relevant to the fields of thrombosis and hemostasis.

Arnold is a Professor in the Department of Medicine and Director of the Michael G. DeGroote Centre for Transfusion Research at McMaster University in Canada. He is the Co-Director and Co-Founder of the Canadian Transfusion Trials Group, a network dedicated to clinical trials in Transfusion Medicine across Canada with a focus on mentorship.

As a dedicated leader in the ISTH community, Arnold previously served as Chair of the SSC Subcommittee on Immune-Mediated Platelet Disorders, where he championed a greater focus on translational research and fostered collaboration across disciplines.

“Donald Arnold’s accomplishments reflect a deep commitment to advancing science in ways that directly benefit patients worldwide,” said ISTH President Pantep Angchaisuksiri, M.D. “His leadership within the ISTH SSC has fostered innovation, collaboration and excellence across the global research community.”

Arnold’s research focuses on immune-mediated platelet disorders and improving blood transfusion practices worldwide. He has helped establish a comprehensive clinical and translational research program in immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), including a patient registry linked to a biorepository.

His work has significantly advanced understanding of platelet disorders, informing treatment strategies, enabling the development of novel diagnostic approaches and contributing to international clinical guidelines.

“What has inspired me most throughout my career is the opportunity to bridge basic and clinical investigation, which has led to advances in diagnostics and international guidance,” said Arnold. “This recognition from the ISTH is incredibly meaningful to me and underscores the importance of collaboration and innovation in the field of thrombosis and hemostasis.”

The Harold R. Roberts Award will be presented at the ISTH 2026 Congress in July in Paris. It is named after Harold R. Roberts, an ISTH charter member who served as Secretary General of the SSC from 1978 to 1988. Roberts was a leader, mentor, counselor and scientific diplomat recognized internationally for his fairness, wisdom and devotion to the SSC and the Society.

Learn more about the Harold R. Roberts Award at www.isth.org/page/robertsaward.

About the ISTH
Founded in 1969, the ISTH is the leading international medical and scientific professional organization dedicated to advancing the understanding, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to thrombosis and hemostasis. The ISTH professional membership community includes more than 7,000 clinicians, researchers and educators from more than 120 countries working together to advance science and improve clinical care around the world. Among its highly-regarded activities and initiatives are education and standardization programs, research activities, meetings and congresses, clinical and laboratory practice guidance and guidelines, peer-reviewed publications, expert committees and World Thrombosis Day on 13 October. Learn more at www.isth.org.

Media contact:
Barbara Krolak
ISTH Marketing Manager
Barbara_Krolak@isth.org

Voting for the ISTH Council Class of 2032 opens April 16. We invite all members to participate in this important process by casting their vote to select the next (5) Council representatives, including a dedicated Reach-the-World seat.  

Voting credentials were sent directly to all Society members – please check your email on April 16 to cast your ballot. Your participation is both a valued privilege and an important responsibility, helping to shape the future leadership and global impact of the ISTH. 

Voting will remain open through May 14, 2026. If you have any questions or need your voting credentials resent, please contact us at elections@isth.org. 

 

The joint task force, composed of internationally recognized experts from both organizations, recently convened and will soon begin developing research questions and conducting a literature review. The ISTH Guidelines and Guidance Committee will share a draft guidance for public comment when the manuscript becomes available. The final guidance document is expected to be released in 2027.  

Learn more about ISTH guidance here.