KFSYSCC Launches Molecular Medicine Research Program
By Andrew T. Huang, MD (CEO and President of KFSYSCC)
Since the establishment of KFSYSCC in 1990, I embarked on cancer research by purchasing a cryogenic instrument with a charitable donation, initiating the collection of cancer patients' tumor tissues. Over the past 34 years, we have continuously expanded the scope and scale of this cancer human biobank, extending from tumor tissues and adjacent normal tissues to patients' serum. To date, we have stored around 40,000 cancer-related biological specimens. We believe this cancer human biobank is a pivotal tool in advancing cancer research in Taiwan.
A multidisciplinary cancer care team is also crucial for cancer research. The integration across specialties allows the medical team to combine expertise from various fields, accelerating clinical trials and research through information sharing and collaboration. This not only led to an impressive five-year survival rate of 75% for our cancer patients but also hastened the progress of research and trials.
Understanding the profound impact medical research has on the lives and futures of cancer patients in Taiwan, KFSYSCC bases its research on two significant assets: the human biobank and the interdisciplinary team. I am proud to announce that as of November 1, 2023, KFSYSCC’s cancer research will officially enter its second phase by initiating a precise and personalized molecular medicine research program.
After more than three decades of dedication, KFSYSCCl has achieved remarkable results in cancer treatment and patient survival rates. However, our aspirations extend beyond these accomplishments. Through molecular medicine research, we aim to bring new breakthroughs to cancer care, offering renewed hope to patients. To realize this vision, our research in molecular medicine has several goals. Firstly, we are committed to cancer prevention by delving into the causes, genetic mutations, and environmental factors affecting Taiwanese cancer patients. Our aim is to uncover the fundamental reasons behind cancer in Taiwanese patients, providing more effective methods for cancer prevention.
Secondly, we strive for more precise cancer diagnoses. By researching the stored tumor biological samples, we aim to develop more reliable diagnostic tools, ensuring patients receive more accurate diagnoses and improving subsequent treatment outcomes.
Lastly, we are dedicated to monitoring for signs of recurrence. Through molecular medicine research, we intend to establish methods for earlier detection of recurrence, allowing for more timely treatment interventions. This will offer peace of mind and long-term health assurance to cancer survivors concerned about recurrence.
KFSYSCC hopes its molecular medicine research program will benefit more Taiwanese cancer patients. By focusing on correct prevention, precise diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and early handling of recurrences, we aim to help patients regain a healthy life. We look forward to the participation of like-minded benefactors and researchers in this project, contributing to the development of cancer care in Taiwan and ensuring every cancer patient receives better treatment and a more secure, healthy life post-cancer.