The Thailand Wellness Asia Summit (TWAS) 2024, co-chaired by the Thailand Charter of Health under the visionary leadership of Dr. Kampon Sriwatanakul, has once again underscored Thailand’s pivotal role in the global wellness and medical innovation landscape. Held in Bangkok, the summit attracted an impressive roster of international participants, including key figures from China, Korea, Japan, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, Russia, Europe, and America. This diverse representation, including reputable Thai government agencies and several well-known associations, highlighted the summit’s commitment to fostering international collaboration and knowledge exchange.
International Collaboration and Participation
TWAS 2024 brought together leading minds from various countries, creating a melting pot of ideas and innovations. Notable attendees included:
- Chinese Delegation: Representatives from major health and wellness institutions in China shared insights on integrating traditional Chinese medicine with modern practices, showcasing successful case studies and collaborative projects.
- Korea and Japan: Experts from Korea and Japan discussed their advancements in medical technologies and traditional therapies, emphasizing the importance of blending the old with the new.
- Minor Group: Key executives discussed their investments in wellness resorts and health tourism, emphasizing the economic benefits of wellness industries and the potential for creating new job opportunities and boosting local economies.
- Bumrungrad Hospital: Known for its world-class healthcare services, Bumrungrad Hospital’s representatives highlighted their latest advancements in medical treatments and patient care technologies. They presented data on patient outcomes and discussed the integration of AI in improving diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning.
- Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong and Australia: Health officials and medical professionals from Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Australia shared successful policies and initiatives. These efforts have improved public health outcomes and increased the influx of medical tourists.
- Russia, Europe, and America: Leading researchers and clinicians from these regions presented their findings on various cutting-edge treatments and therapies. They discussed ongoing research collaborations with Thai institutions and the impact of these partnerships on global health advancements.
- Thai Medical and Wellness Tourism Association: Dr. Prapa Wongphaet, President of the association, highlighted the integration of traditional Thai wellness practices with modern healthcare solutions, emphasizing the importance of cultural heritage in promoting holistic health.
- Department of Health Service Support: Dr. Saowapa Jongkitipong, Public Health Technical Officer (Expert), discussed Thailand’s strategic focus on developing the wellness industry through innovative policies and national strategies.
Thailand as a Global Wellness Hub
Thailand has long been recognized as a premier destination for wellness and medical tourism. The country’s unique ability to blend traditional therapies with state-of-the-art medical treatments has earned it a reputation as a global hub for health and wellness. The summit showcased Thailand’s advancements in various fields, reinforcing its status as a beacon of innovative healthcare solutions.
Dr. Kampon Sriwatanakul emphasized this dual focus in his opening remarks: “Thailand is uniquely positioned at the intersection of tradition and innovation. Our commitment to integrating ancient wellness practices with modern medical technology is what sets us apart on the global stage.”
Thailand’s wellness industry combines traditional practices like Thai massage and herbal medicine with cutting-edge treatments. Its healthcare system boasts advanced facilities, regenerative medicine research, and AI-driven diagnostics.
Government initiatives enhance healthcare quality, invest in advanced technologies, and foster public-private partnerships. National strategies, like the 20-Year National Strategy (2018-2037) and the Medical Hub Policy Strategy (2017-2026), aim to position Thailand as a leading health and wellness destination.
Thailand is one of the most visited destinations globally, thanks to exceptional healthcare services, affordable treatment costs, and internationally accredited facilities. Its hospitality, cultural heritage, and scenic beauty make it an attractive choice for medical tourists seeking holistic care and innovative treatments.
Scientific Advancements and Key Speeches
The summit featured a series of insightful presentations from renowned experts, each contributing to a narrative of hope and progress in the wellness industry. Here are the key points from the speakers:
Dr. Kampon Sriwatanakul: Innovations in Senolytics Therapy
- Discussed the potential of senolytic agents in treating age-related diseases and promoting overall health and longevity.
Dr. Richard H. Kaszynski: AI in Health Screening
- Highlighted the role of AI in enhancing health screenings and early cancer detection through ultra-low dose CT scans.
Biogut Presentation: Role of Probiotics
- Emphasized the benefits of Lactobacillus probiotics in promoting gut health and fighting diseases.
Dr. Prapa Wongphaet: Harnessing Thai Wellness Wisdom
- Focused on the integration of traditional Thai massage, herbal medicine, and cultural practices in modern wellness solutions.
Saowapa Jongkitipong: New S Curve of Wellness Industry
- Discussed Thailand’s strategic focus on developing the wellness industry through innovative policies and national strategies.
Prof. Dr. Vasilis Paspaliaris: Bioregenerative Approaches
- Presented on the use of biogut solutions and SUMMA bio-solutions for heart and osteoarthritis treatments.
Col. Dr. Pongsak Tangkana: Quantum Healing and Thai Traditional Medicine
- Explored the synergy between quantum healing and traditional Thai medicine for holistic health.
Dr. Kyuboem Han: Brain Fatigue and Innovative Treatments
- Addressed the growing concern of brain fatigue and presented the use of stem-cell derived mitochondria as a therapeutic agent (Mitochondrial Transplantation/MitoTherapy).
Hydrogen Therapy
- Highlighted the benefits of hydrogen therapy, particularly its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, as presented by Mr. Hidenao Yokomizo and Mr. Saengthong Leelasmanchai.
John Wood: Cellular Immunotherapy
- Presented on cellular immunotherapy for cancer and chronic diseases, detailing how immune cells are modified and expanded to fight diseases like cancer and chronic conditions. Key therapies include NK cells, CAR T-cells, CAR NK cells, and NKT cells, which specifically target cancer cells, reducing side effects compared to traditional treatments.
Dr. Felix Chau: Stem Cell Exosome for Rejuvenation and Enzyme Therapy for Metabolic Disease and Cancer
- Dr. Felix Chau, Chief Scientist at Genomic Nantijen Diagnostics Ltd, specializes in genetic engineering and advanced cytology. His presentation covered the use of stem cell exosomes for rejuvenation and enzyme therapy for treating metabolic diseases and cancer. He emphasized the potential of MSC exosomes in promoting cellular repair and rejuvenation, and the application of enzyme therapy in targeting metabolic pathways involved in cancer progression.
Conclusion
The Thailand Wellness Asia Summit 2024 successfully demonstrated Thailand’s dual strength in traditional wellness practices and innovative medical treatments. The event highlighted the country’s role as a global leader in health and wellness, attracting international collaboration and showcasing groundbreaking scientific advancements.
Dr. Kampon Sriwatanakul closed the summit with a call to action: “As we move forward, let us continue to embrace both our ancient traditions and modern innovations. Together, we can create a future where wellness and health are accessible to all.”
For more details, read the full articles on Bangkok Post , Thai News and visit the organizers’ sources at the official website and YouTube Channel.
Written by: Thailand Charter of Health team, Adisorn V. Ping
Photos by: CISW team, Woraphon Pongpairote