HCMC Oncology Hospital, AstraZeneca Vietnam partner to enhance cancer care, treatment quality

According to Globocan 2022 statistics, Vietnam records approximately 180,480 new cancer cases and 120,184 cancer-related deaths each year.

The most prevalent cancers include breast, liver, and lung cancers, with rising incidence and mortality rates annually.

Recognizing the importance of enhancing treatment quality and building on the achievements of programs implemented in phase 1 of their collaboration, the HCMC hospital and AstraZeneca Vietnam have agreed to focus on activities aimed at accelerating scientific research and the hospital's international integration, improving treatment quality for cancer patients in southern provinces and surrounding areas.

Representatives of HCMC Oncology Hospital and AstraZeneca Vietnam sign a cooperation agreement for the period 2024-2027. Photo courtesy of AstraZeneca Vietnam

Key areas of collaboration include conducting advanced clinical studies to evaluate the effectiveness of new treatments, contributing to improved patient outcomes, supporting epidemiological studies, and cancer registries; Establishing and developing an innovation center that applies advanced technology and artificial intelligence in cancer diagnosis and treatment; Promoting comprehensive healthcare programs to ensure equitable access to advanced treatment options for patients.

According to Dr. Diep Bao Tuan, Deputy Director of Oncology Hospital HCMC, the collaboration with AstraZeneca and the company's recent contributions are expected to bring new breakthroughs in Vietnam’s cancer treatment, aiming to enhance the quality of healthcare for cancer patients and elevate the standards of oncology in the country.

Dr. Diep Bao Tuan, Deputy Director of HCMC Oncology Hospital, speaks at the signing ceremony with AstraZeneca Vietnam. Photo courtesy of AstraZeneca Vietnam

In addition to focusing on training, researching, and improving treatment quality, both parties prioritize promoting health equity through the application of artificial intelligence in early lung cancer screening.

This initiative aims to detect the disease at early stages, increasing the chances of successful treatment.

Furthermore, in the near future, the HCMC Oncology Hospital and AstraZeneca will collaborate to establish the country's first "Cancer Genetic Counseling Unit."

This center will serve as a standard genetic counseling hub (COE) to enhance awareness and provide comprehensive management throughout the diagnosis and treatment journey for specific genetic mutations, as well as offering psychological support for cancer patients with genetic risk factors.

Atul Tandon, CEO of AstraZeneca Vietnam, emphasized the significance of this event in the fight against cancer.

This collaboration aligns not only with the company’s strategic vision but also contributes positively to broader health goals in Vietnam as outlined in the National Strategy for the Protection, Care, and Improvement of People's Health.

"By leveraging the expertise and resources of both parties, this partnership aims to create a meaningful impact on cancer patients’ lives and their families, contributing to a healthier and more prosperous Vietnam", Atul said.

Atul Tandon, General Director of AstraZeneca Vietnam, speaks at the event. Photo courtesy of AstraZeneca Vietnam

In the first phase of collaboration (2021-2023), the HCMC Oncology Hospital and AstraZeneca Vietnam have successfully implemented meaningful activities and programs for patients, including funding low-dose lung CT scans and raising awareness for the early detection of lung cancer through the "Healthy Lung, For Healthy Lungs" program; sponsoring late-stage EGFR testing for patients without health insurance; and enhancing the accuracy of a lung cancer diagnosis.

Additionally, they supported pathologists in overseas training for breast cancer diagnosis (HER2-low) and facilitated research initiatives at the hospital.

Doctors introduced treatment rooms at HCMC Oncology Hospital (Campus 2) to AstraZeneca Vietnam representatives. Photo courtesy of AstraZeneca Vietnam

Additionally, the two organizations have launched the "Oncology Specialist Chat Club" for patients and their families, which has received enthusiastic participation.

This initiative allows patients to receive thorough consultations and advice from leading doctors regarding their conditions, treatment options, and management of side effects.

Participants have found this initiative to be a meaningful step in providing comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and emotional needs of cancer patients.