Breaking Boundaries in Cancer Care: The 4th Asia Pacific Forum on Precision Treatment

The 4th Asia Pacific Forum on Precision Cancer Treatment opened today in Taipei, Taiwan, bringing together experts from across the globe to discuss the latest advancements in precision medicine for cancer. The event, held at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center, highlights groundbreaking developments in precision treatments for breast and lung cancer, with a focus on global collaboration and the future of cancer care in the Asia Pacific region.

In his opening remarks, Chi-Huey Wong, President of the Institute for Biotechnology and Medicine Industry (IBMI), emphasized the importance of international cooperation in the fight against cancer:
"Precision cancer medicine is transforming how we approach treatment. It is not just about improving outcomes but also about improving lives. As Taiwan continues to lead in this field, we are excited to explore further international collaborations that will foster innovation and progress in cancer treatment."

Keynote Speakers and Insights

The forum’s keynote session featured Pan-Chyr Yang, Vice President of IBMI, who discussed the prospects and innovative applications of global precision cancer medicine. Yueh-Ping Liu, Department of Medical Affairs at Taiwan’s Ministry of Health and Welfare, introduced Taiwan’s role as a leader in precision cancer medicine and the importance of international cooperation in advancing cancer treatments.

Session 1: Precision Medicine for Breast Cancer

The first session, moderated by Ming-Feng You, Emeritus Professor at Kaohsiung Medical University, focused on precision diagnostics and treatments for breast cancer.

• Sun-Ming Rau, Vice Superintendent of E-Da Cancer Hospital, delivered an insightful talk on liquid biopsy for breast cancer and its potential in improving diagnostic accuracy.
• Yen-Shen Lu, Division Chief of Medical Oncology at National Taiwan University Hospital, discussed the latest advances in precision treatment for breast cancer.

A panel discussion followed, addressing trends and development in precision medicine for breast cancer treatment in the Asia Pacific region, as well as opportunities for collaboration between Taiwan and international partners. Panelists included:

• Dr. Dhanoo Lawbundis, Hospital Director, Vibharam Hospital, Thailand
• Dr. Ma. Katrina Guillermo, Surgical Oncology Fellow, Philippine General Hospital
• Kun-Ming Rau, Vice Superintendent, E-Da Cancer Hospital
• Yen-Shen Lu, Division Chief of Medical Oncology, National Taiwan University Hospital

Session 2: Precision Medicine for Lung Cancer

The second session, moderated by Chin-Hsin Yang, President of National Taiwan University Cancer Center, focused on precision medicine for lung cancer.

• Te-Chun Asia, Vice Chair of the Department of Internal Medicine and Chief of the Intensive Medicine Centre at China Medical University Hospital, presented on the "Ws" of early precision medicine in lung cancer, emphasizing early detection and targeted treatment strategies.
• King-Yun Lee, Vice President of Taipei Medical University, highlighted innovative clinical applications and breakthroughs in lung cancer treatment.

The session concluded with a panel discussion on trends, development, and collaboration opportunities for precision medicine in lung cancer treatment in the Asia Pacific region. The panelists included:

• Necy Saguisag Juat, Head of Medical Oncology Section, National Kidney and Transplant Institute, Philippines
• Dr. Dhanoo Lawbundis, Hospital Director, Vibharam Hospital, Thailand
• Te-Chun Hsia, Vice Chair of the Department of Internal Medicine and Chief of the Intensive Medicine Centre, China Medical University Hospital
• King-Yun Lee, Vice President, Taipei Medical University

Looking Ahead: Collaboration and Innovation in Precision Cancer Treatment

As the forum continues, Taiwan’s commitment to being at the forefront of precision cancer medicine is evident in its collaborative efforts to integrate new diagnostic tools, treatment approaches, and the sharing of knowledge with international partners.

This year’s event underscores the importance of precision oncology in improving treatment outcomes, with a clear focus on early detection, targeted therapies, and global cooperation in advancing cancer care. Taiwan is poised to remain a global leader in precision medicine, shaping the future of cancer treatment for years to come.