AstraZeneca-led seminars put spotlight on genetic cancer treatments

The events included Bach Mai Hospital's cancer genetics conference on June 14, scientific workshops with Ho Chi Minh Oncology Hospital and Cho Ray Hospital on June 20, and intensive extracurricular training activities on genetic counselling with Ho Chi Minh City University of Medicine and Pharmacy on June 21.

Health experts at the workshop at Ho Chi Minh Oncology Hospital on June 20. Photo: AZ

The events saw the participation of leading domestic and international experts in the region, including those from Singapore, Malaysia, as well as more than 800 doctors, medical staff nationwide working in cancer treatment.

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. In addition to environmental risk factors, some genetic mutations may be passed down through generations in families, increasing the likelihood of developing cancer. Individuals identified as carriers of hereditary cancer-associated genes should be managed and screened according to a separate programme and counselled on risk-reducing interventions.

In addition, some hereditary cancers can be effectively treated with appropriate targeted therapies. Cancers identified as being associated with inherited gene mutations, the most common of which are BRCA1/2 genes, are diseases with increasing incidence and mortality rates every year.

According to the Ministry of Health, in Vietnam, on average, nearly 200,000 people are diagnosed with cancer each year, with more than 100,000 people dying annually. There are currently more than 350,000 patients living with this disease.

The cancer genetics conference at Bach Mai Hospital, Hanoi, on June 14. Photo: AZ

According to industry observers, the healthcare sector faces significant challenges in training its workforce, particularly amid population growth, ageing demographics, and a rise in non-communicable diseases. These trends call for greater investment in both the quality and quantity of health professionals to meet future demands

Speaking at the genetic counselling training event on June 21, Assoc. Prof., Dr. Ngo Quoc Dat, president of Ho Chi Minh City University of Medicine and Pharmacy, praised the success of the short-term training courses, which featured both domestic and international lecturers, along with medical experts from leading healthcare institutions across Vietnam. He expressed hope that future collaborations will lead to even greater achievements.

"The cooperation between Ho Chi Minh City University of Medicine and Pharmacy and AstraZeneca Vietnam has achieved remarkable results, especially in training workers for the very new field of oncology – genetic counselling. This success not only affirms the pioneering position of both sides but also contributes significantly to the development of the country's health sector," he said.

"I believe that, building on our existing foundations, the partnership between both sides will continue to strengthen and deliver greater value to Vietnam’s healthcare sector. In the near future, Ho Chi Minh City University of Medicine and Pharmacy will also develop additional content to assess and pilot postgraduate training in genetic counselling, expanding its reach to a broader range of learners," added Dat.

Atul Tandon, general director of AstraZeneca Vietnam said, "AstraZeneca is committed to innovating medical practices based on a solid scientific foundation. Over the more than 30 years working in Vietnamese healthcare, we have pioneered modern cancer treatment solutions, contributing to improving treatment effectiveness and quality of life for patients."

"This journey continues to advance through genetic research and counselling, enabling early cancer detection and personalised treatment, while easing pressure on patients and the healthcare system. We aim to strengthen partnerships to raise awareness and work towards a future where cancer is no longer a leading cause of death, supporting a healthier, more prosperous Vietnam," he added.

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