HÀ NỘI - Statistics show that breast cancer is the most common cancer among Vietnamese women, with over 24,500 new cases and more than 10,000 deaths annually.

Although early detection rates have improved due to screening programmes and enhanced community awareness, breast cancer remains a significant burden on both physical and mental health.

On August 16, Hồng Ngọc Phúc Trường Minh General Hospital in Hà Nội hosted the symposium 'Latest Updates On Breast Cancer Diagnosis, Treatment and Management'.

The seminar gathered eight leading experts from South Korea and top specialists from Việt Nam, drawing the participation of over 200 doctors in multiple disciplines from across the country.

This symposium is expected to open up opportunities to access comprehensive, humanistic care approaches that are aligned with international standards.

The symposium 'Latest Updates On Breast Cancer Diagnosis, Treatment and Management' drew over 200 doctors from major hospitals across the country. Photos courtesy of Hồng Ngọc Phúc Trường Minh General Hospital

The symposium featured eight in-depth presentations, providing updates on the latest advancements in comprehensive breast cancer management, including AI-assisted early diagnosis, breast-conserving surgery combined with immediate reconstruction in a single operation, and the use of robotic technology in surgery, as well as rehabilitation and post-treatment care aimed at helping patients return to normal life as soon as possible.

Doctors from Samsung Medical Center in Seoul shared real case studies and standardised treatment models in a country renowned as Asia’s leader in medical and aesthetic care, opening opportunities for widespread application in Việt Nam.

In opening remarks at the symposium, oncology specialist at Hồng Ngọc Phúc Trường Minh General Hospital Associate Professor Nguyễn Thị Minh Phương MD, PhD, said: “This seminar has brought leading experts together from both Việt Nam and abroad, united in our commitment to improving the quality of breast cancer patient care for the global community and especially for the Vietnamese medical community.”

Associate Professor Nguyen Thi Minh Phuong MD, PhD, Oncology Specialist at Hồng Ngọc Phúc Trường Minh General Hospital, delivered the seminar's opening remarks.

A distinctive feature of the symposium was its focus not only on treatment, but also on emphasising the crucial role of comprehensive rehabilitation in breast cancer patient care. This is a critical factor in ensuring the full recovery of patients’ physical and mental health, helping them quickly return to their daily lives.

During the programme, participants also had the opportunity to engage in direct discussions with South Korean experts, gaining practical insights that can immediately be applied in Việt Nam. Many questions focused on how best to use AI in breast cancer screening, as well as applying robotic surgery and advanced breast reconstruction techniques within the technological capabilities of hospitals nationwide.

Doctors engaged in discussions on the role of AI technology in breast cancer diagnosis.

The symposium concluded with participants' hope of opening a new chapter in collaboration between Việt Nam and South Korea, aiming not only to extend patients’ lives, but also to help them achieve healthy bodies, resilient minds and fulfilling lives. VNS