Khon Kaen, Thailand – June 11, 2024 – In a landmark collaboration aimed at revolutionizing early disease detection, the Faculty of Medicine at Khon Kaen University (MDKKU), AstraZeneca (Thailand) Company Limited, and the Digital Economy Promotion Agency of Thailand (depa) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today. This partnership focuses on leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) technology to significantly improve the efficiency and accuracy of early screening for heart failure and lung cancer.

The agreement was signed by representatives as follows:

• MDKKU:
  • Associate Professor Dr. Phattharaphong Makornwet, Dean
  • Associate Professor Dr. Thuss Sanguansak, Vice Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication
• AstraZeneca (Thailand) Company Limited:
  • Ms. Apinya Viriyaramphanon, Head of Business Excellence and Innovation
  • Mr. Jondy Syjuco, Senior Business Unit Director, CVRM & Core Brands
• depa Thailand:
  • Ms. Kasama Kongsak, Assistant Director General, Strategy and Security Group

Through this collaboration, MDKKU will utilize AI technology provided by AstraZeneca. This AI will be instrumental in detecting early warning signs of heart failure and lung cancer, enabling faster and more precise diagnoses, which holds the potential to significantly improve patient outcomes.

The ultimate goal of this partnership is to reduce mortality rates from these two leading causes of death and enhance the overall quality of life for patients. Early detection allows for timely intervention and treatment, leading to better prognoses and improved health outcomes. Additionally, depa’s involvement will ensure the development of a robust digital infrastructure to support the sustainable implementation of this AI-powered screening system.

The MOU signing ceremony was witnessed by distinguished representatives from all three parties.

AstraZeneca (Thailand) Ltd.:

1. Tanika Pannoppa Business Unit Director – Oncology
2. Narubon Kanungsatitkit Product Manager, CVRM (Head of Project from CVRM)
3. Rattakorn Chaokunha National Sales Manager
4. Sawacke Wuthithanchamroen BBU Expansion Commercial Head
5. Tanitra Ju-ngam Business Unit Director – Rare Disease
6. Kritamait Vithayaruksun Government and Public Affairs Manager

Digital Economy Promotion Agency of Thailand

1. Pradit Kongpunga Interim Division Manager,Lower Northeastern Provincial Cluster Office
2. Acting Lt. Din Supawat Senior Officer, Central Northeastern Provincial Cluster Office

Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University

1. Prof. Sirirat Anutrakulchai Vice Dean for Research and Innovation
2. Prof. Warachaya Phanphruk Assistant Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication
3. Prof. Burabha Pussadhamma Head, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine
4. Montri Yasud Assistant Dean for Physical Facilities and Environment Management
5. Manun Tanaichot Head, Division of Diagnostic Radiology, Queen Sirikit Heart Center of the Northeast
6. John F. Smith English Specialist, International Relations Office

The signing of this MOU marks a significant step forward in Thailand’s healthcare landscape. By embracing AI technology, this collaboration paves the way for a future where early disease detection becomes more efficient and accurate, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for all.