Mr. Prasert Jantararuangtong the Minister of the Digital Economy and Society (MDES)presides over the official launch of 'AI for Better Life', offering AI-powered preliminary lung cancer screening as a New Year's gift for the year 2024 for Thai's citizens. The event featured Asst. Prof. Dr. Nuttapon Nimmanphatcharin President/CEO of Digital Economy Promotion Agency or depa, Mr. Roman Ramos Country president of AstraZeneca (Thailand), Miss Voralak Tulaphorn Chief Marketing Officer of The Mall Group, and Dr. Saowanee Kerddonfak Director of Banphaeo General Hospital at The Mall Life Store in Bang Kapi.
Mr. Prasert revealed that the government's acknowledgment of the vast potential within Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to elevate the functioning of various operational systems. MDES is actively driving the application of digital technology to improve the overall quality of life for the population through the implementation of depa, especially in the realm of healthcare system. MDES, in collaboration with depa and partner organizations, is driving forward impactful projects dedicated to the development of digital innovations in healthcare and disease management. Simultaneously, aim to heighten awareness about the transformative influence of digital technologies in the realm of health.
"As for 'AI for Better Life' project, providing preliminary lung cancer screening through state-of-the-art artificial intelligence technology as a 2024 New Year's gift for Thai's citizens is a result of collaboration between the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (MDES), by depa, and a network of partners such as AstraZeneca (Thailand), Banphaeo General Hospital, and The Mall Group. This project serves as a notable example of practical utilizing of AI technology to advance the economy and society (AI for Action) while also brings significant benefits to the public by raising awareness about the importance of preventive healthcare through cost-saving early lung cancer diagnosis from digital technology, emphasizing the Ministry's commitment to provide meaningful New Year's gifts for the people," stated the MDES Minister.
Asst. Prof. Dr. Nuttapon highlighted that regarding the 'AI for Better Life' project builds upon the pioneering 'Fast Check, Combat Lung Cancer' project that commenced last year with primary goal of promoting the integration of digital healthcare innovations, elevating Thailand's public health system. The project aims to cultivate awareness about healthcare through digital technology, while also contributing to cost savings and convenience in the early diagnosis of lung cancer for the Thai population.
"For the preliminary lung cancer screening using AI technology, set up on the G Floor of The Mall Life Store Bang Kapi will be offered to the public free of charge over a 3-day period (January 26-28), serving as a New Year's gift from MDES. Additionally, depa envisions a more extensive collaboration with other hospitals, aiming to extend the service to over 1 million individuals. The plan includes expanding the program reach to other provinces with hospitals seeking a more cost-effective health checkups procedure," stated the President/CEO of depa.
Mr. Roman stressed that lung cancer is one of the leading threats that have taken the lives of Thai people over the years. The majority of people are diagnosed with lung cancer at advanced stages because there is minor or no symptoms shown in the early stages. This caused a delay in treatment, which negatively impacted patient outcomes and ultimately reduced the survival rate. Therefore, early detection of lung cancer will help patients get into treatment earlier, which will improve their health outcomes and may increase the survival rate.
"As innovation and technological advancements progress, the support of early detection of lung cancer through pre-screening will strengthen our healthcare system by building equitable access to lung health checks for Thai people. We hope that our collaboration will increase the survival rate of lung cancer patients in Thailand", AstraZeneca (Thailand) Country President stated.
Dr. Saowanee stated that from the past to the present, the leading cause of death among Thais remains cancer, with lung cancer being the most prevalent cause of death, ranking in the top 5 and showing a continuous upward trend. Lung cancer often does not exhibit symptoms, and patients are typically diagnosed in the late stages, resulting in delayed treatment and less favorable outcomes. The chances of recovery are low, and there is an increased risk of mortality. Therefore, lung cancer screening is crucial.
"Banphaeo General Hospital is delighted to continue and expand the implementation of AI technology for lung cancer screening as part of the AI for Better Life project. Our hospital team will mobilize to conduct lung cancer screening using AI, with the AI processing taking just 3 minutes. Patients will receive rapid results, and if abnormalities are detected, they can promptly enter hospital care. The physician will consider the AI analysis alongside their diagnosis. Over the past period, Banphaeo General Hospital has conducted screenings for over 10,000 individuals, demonstrating that early lung cancer screening with AI technology facilitates quick diagnosis, timely treatment, and improved chances of survival," said the Banphaeo General Hospital director.
While Miss Voralak mentioned that The Mall Group, the leader in Thailand's shopping center and department store business as a sustainable organization under the ESG concept, is proud to represent the Thai people in applying artificial intelligence technology for health improvement. The Mall Lifestyle Store Bangkapi has supported a space for early lung cancer screening to provide convenience and reduce travel for the public. Additionally, they hope to be a part of enhancing the quality of the Thai public health system. Furthermore, The Mall Group is committed to supporting impactful projects like 'AI for Better Life' project, aiming to raise awareness of the importance of regular lung cancer screening and encouraging people to take better care of their health.
Individuals are warmly welcome to participate in the AI-powered preliminary lung cancer screening at the G Floor, M Lifestyle Zone, The Mall Life Store Bang Kapi, without incurring any associated costs. The opportunity is available starting from today until January 28 with screening hours on January 26-27 from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and on January 28 from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Source: 888Ideas
