HCMC Oncology Hospital and Bayer Vietnam collaborate to enhance gastrointestinal cancer care

Under the partnership, both parties aim to strengthen diagnosis, treatment, and support for cancer patients, addressing the growing burden of gastrointestinal cancers, including liver and colorectal cancer, which have significant impacts on patients, families, and the national healthcare system.

Ho Chi Minh City Oncology Hospital and Bayer's representatives at the signing ceremony. Photo by Minh Phu

Cancer remains a major public health concern in Vietnam. According to Globocan 2022, the country reports nearly 180,400 new cancer cases and over 120,000 cancer-related deaths annually. Gastrointestinal cancers - specifically liver, colorectal, and stomach cancers - are among the five most common. Liver cancer ranks as the leading cause of cancer-related deaths, while colorectal cancer sees approximately 17,000 new cases and over 8,450 deaths each year. Notably, colorectal cancer is increasingly affecting younger populations.

A key challenge is the late-stage diagnosis of many cancer cases. Between 50% and 80% of patients are diagnosed at Stage 3 or 4. Early detection plays a critical role in improving treatment outcomes, increasing five-year survival rates, and reducing financial strain on patients and their families.

The collaboration brings together Ho Chi Minh City Oncology Hospital's clinical expertise and infrastructure with Bayer's global scientific knowledge and technological solutions, with a key emphasis on collaboratively developing Ho Chi Minh City Oncology Hospital into a comprehensive liver cancer management and treatment center.

Planned activities include professional training for medical staff, optimization of diagnosis and treatment protocols, enhanced international cooperation, public awareness campaigns, and support for scientific research. These efforts aim to benefit patients as well as the broader medical community.

Dr. Diep Bao Tuan (L), Director of Ho Chi Minh City Oncology Hospital, and James Alexander (R), Country Division Head of the Pharmaceuticals Division at Bayer Vietnam. Photo by Minh Phu

Dr. Diep Bao Tuan, Director of Ho Chi Minh City Oncology Hospital, said that as a leading specialized hospital in the southern region, the hospital is focused on treatment and takes the lead in cancer prevention and early detection. They are actively implementing public awareness campaigns and screening programs aimed at early diagnosis, with the goal of reducing mortality rates and late-stage cancer cases.

"We highly value the support of partners—particularly pharmaceutical companies and healthcare organizations—to join hands in raising community awareness, promoting early screening, and contributing to sustainable public health protection," said Dr. Tuan.

James Alexander, Country Division Head of the Pharmaceuticals Division at Bayer Vietnam, affirmed Bayer's commitment to innovation and collaboration in cancer care.

"Our focus is on building capacity, promoting early diagnosis, and supporting patient education to contribute to improved outcomes for cancer patients in Vietnam," Alexander said.

Initial activities under this MoU will include specialized workshops and conferences on cancer prevention and treatment, multidisciplinary consultation programs.

In addition, both organizations will work together on patient support programs, providing information, emotional support, and practical guidance for patients and caregivers. The partnership also includes cooperation in enhancing diagnostic imaging services.

YeWon Kwak (C), Country Head of Radiology at Bayer Vietnam. Photo by Minh Phu

YeWon Kwak, Country Head of Radiology at Bayer Vietnam, highlighted the importance of accurate and timely diagnosis.

"Early and precise diagnosis is essential to effective cancer treatment," said Kwak. "We are committed to contributing our diagnostic expertise and technology to help guide treatment decisions and improve patient outcomes."

This partnership reflects the potential of collaboration between the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors in addressing the complex challenges posed by cancer and expanding access to quality care in Vietnam.