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 2024 New Year's gift for Thai 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); Ms 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 the government's acknowledgement of the vast potential of 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 healthcare system. MDES, in collaboration with depa and partner organisations, is driving forward impactful projects dedicated to developing digital innovations in healthcare and disease management. Simultaneously, it aims to heighten awareness about the transformative influence of digital technologies on health.
"As for the '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 the practical utilisation of AI technology to advance the economy and society (AI for Action) while also bringing significant benefits to the public through awareness raising, highlighting the importance of preventive healthcare through cost-saving early lung cancer diagnosis from digital technology, emphasising the Ministry's commitment to provide meaningful New Year's gifts for the people," stated the MDES Minister.
Asst. Prof. Dr Nuttapon highlighted that the 'AI for Better Life' project builds upon the pioneering 'Fast Check, Combat Lung Cancer' project that commenced last year with the primary goal of promoting the integration of digital healthcare innovations to elevate 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.
"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 for over three days (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 outreach to other provinces with hospitals seeking a more cost-effective health checkup procedure," stated the President/CEO of depa.
Mr Roman stated 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 are 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 shared that from the past to the present, the leading cause of death among Thais has been caused by 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 favourable outcomes. The chances of recovery are low, with an increased mortality risk. 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 mobilise 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.
Ms Voralak mentioned that The Mall Group, the leader in Thailand's shopping centre and department store business as a sustainable organisation 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 increase access 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 the 'AI for Better Life' project, aiming to raise awareness of the importance of regular lung cancer screening and encouraging people to better care of their health.
Individuals are welcome to participate in the AI-powered preliminary lung cancer screening at the G Floor, M Lifestyle Zone, and The Mall Life Store Bang Kapi without incurring any associated costs. The opportunity is available today until 28 January 2024, with screening hours from 10:00 to 17:00 on 26 and 27 January 2024 and from 10:00 to 18:00 on 28 January 2024.
Source: weber shandwick Thailand
