Specialists demonstrate the use of stomach examination equipment.

Medics get lessons in early detection of stomach cancer

The National Cancer Centre is intensifying efforts to combat stomach cancer by expanding screening services and training medical staff to detect the disease at an early stage.
A two-day seminar, held on September 30-October 1, discussed the diagnosis and treatment of Helicobacter pylori (H. Pylori), the primary cause of stomach cancer, according to Lao National TV.
The meeting was chaired by the Head of the National Cancer Centre, Dr Phoutthasone Phommachan, and included specialists from Japan, alongside doctors from Oudomxay, Xayaboury, Bokeo, Xieng Khuang, Khammuan, Champassak and Xekong provincial hospitals.
The seminar aimed to strengthen medical staff’s skills in detecting and treating stomach cancer through endoscopy, a key tool in early diagnosis.
The talks emphasised the importance of continued collaboration and training, highlighting that early detection of stomach cancer can greatly improve treatment outcomes and lower mortality rates in Laos.
Screening services have been expanded across the country, with a particular focus on rural provinces where access to healthcare is limited.
According to data from the Laos Cancer Centre, stomach cancer ranks among the top five cancers affecting both men and women aged 50 and above. Many patients are diagnosed at a late stage, making early detection crucial.
A project to combat stomach cancer was launched in 2022 in cooperation with Japanese specialists, with nine training sessions held so far to build capacity in provincial hospitals.
These efforts are part of a broader plan to extend cancer screening and treatment services from central hospitals to provincial facilities.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update October 4, 2024)