Ho Chi Minh City Oncology Hospital and Bayer Vietnam have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at improving cancer care in Vietnam, with a strong focus on gastrointestinal (GI) cancers such as liver and colorectal cancer. This partnership marks a significant step toward enhancing early detection, treatment outcomes, and overall support for cancer patients in the country.
Cancer remains a critical public health issue in Vietnam. According to Globocan 2022, the country records nearly 180,400 new cancer cases and over 120,000 cancer-related deaths annually. Among the most common are gastrointestinal cancers—particularly liver, colorectal, and stomach cancers. Liver cancer is the leading cause of cancer mortality, while colorectal cancer is responsible for about 17,000 new cases and over 8,450 deaths each year, increasingly affecting younger adults.
A major challenge in cancer care is the high percentage of late-stage diagnoses—between 50% and 80% of patients are diagnosed at Stage 3 or 4—limiting treatment options and increasing financial burdens on families. Early detection is therefore key to improving survival rates and reducing long-term treatment costs.
This strategic collaboration leverages the clinical capabilities and infrastructure of Ho Chi Minh City Oncology Hospital with Bayer’s global scientific expertise and technological resources. A core goal of the partnership is to develop the hospital into a center of excellence for liver cancer management.
Planned initiatives include:
Capacity building and training for medical professionals
Optimization of diagnostic and treatment protocols
Enhanced international collaboration
Public awareness and early screening campaigns
Support for scientific research and innovation
Dr. Diep Bao Tuan, Director of HCMC Oncology Hospital, emphasized the hospital’s commitment to not only providing specialized cancer treatment but also taking a proactive role in prevention and early detection through public education and screening programs.
“We welcome partnerships with pharmaceutical companies and healthcare organizations to drive public awareness, encourage early screening, and advance our shared goal of sustainable public health,” said Dr. Tuan.
James Alexander, Country Division Head of Pharmaceuticals at Bayer Vietnam, highlighted Bayer’s dedication to long-term collaboration and innovation in oncology.
“Our aim is to empower healthcare providers, support early diagnosis, and enhance patient education. We believe this joint effort can lead to meaningful improvements in cancer care in Vietnam,” he said.
Initial activities under the MoU include workshops and conferences on cancer prevention and treatment, multidisciplinary consultation programs, and expanded patient support initiatives. These will provide patients and caregivers with vital information, emotional support, and practical guidance.
Diagnostic capabilities will also be enhanced through collaboration in imaging services. YeWon Kwak, Country Head of Radiology at Bayer Vietnam, noted the pivotal role of accurate diagnosis.
“Timely and precise diagnostics are fundamental to successful cancer treatment,” Kwak said. “We’re committed to applying our technological expertise to help guide more effective treatment decisions.”
This partnership showcases the powerful role of collaboration between healthcare providers and the pharmaceutical industry in tackling complex challenges like cancer. It reflects a shared commitment to expanding access to quality care and improving outcomes for patients across Vietnam.