The Department of Medical Services, through the National Cancer Institute, has partnered with MiRXES, a Singapore-based molecular diagnostic technology company specializing in microRNA blood testing, and N Health to sign an academic collaboration agreement. The study aims to evaluate the potential of blood testing to assess colorectal cancer risk in individuals with positive Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) results.
The initial phase will investigate SEPT9 methylation testing to support prioritizing the urgency of colonoscopy procedures, enhancing medical resource efficiency, and promoting timely and appropriate diagnostic access for the public.
Air Force Captain Dr. Somchai Thanasitichai, Director of the National Cancer Institute, stated that Thailand sees approximately 150,000 new cancer cases annually, with colorectal cancer ranking third and accounting for about 21,000 new cases each year.
Although Thailand implements FIT-based screening programs, individuals with positive results still require colonoscopy. Limitations in equipment, specialized personnel, and service capacity may delay access to timely examinations for some patients.
This research project, led by the National Cancer Institute, plans to enroll up to 825 volunteers with positive FIT results to evaluate whether blood biomarker testing can distinguish individuals at high risk for colorectal cancer or precancerous lesions and assist in prioritizing colonoscopy scheduling.
Currently, this testing remains under research and cannot replace colonoscopy. Participants will continue to receive standard medical care during the study.
MiRXES will provide molecular diagnostic technology, scientific expertise, and knowledge transfer in laboratory processes, quality control systems, and personnel training, with N Health supporting sample analysis within Thailand.
Additionally, MiRXES is developing microRNA blood testing technology for early cancer detection and is conducting international research projects such as Project CADENCE, funded by the Singapore government.
This collaboration could mark the beginning of further blood testing innovation studies in Thailand, including future microRNA technologies, subject to research protocols and regulatory requirements.
If clinical efficacy is demonstrated, further evaluation of cost-effectiveness and feasibility will be undertaken to integrate the technology into the national cancer screening system to support appropriate and timely risk-based screening and care.
/ Mr. Chainarong Wongyai, Governor of Nan Province, received donations of consumer goods and hygiene supplies, including clean drinking water, adjustable fans, and adult diapers, from Viriyah Insurance Public Company Limited.
Mr. Pongsapan Prapasirilak, Corporate Communications Manager, represented the company in supporting a special relief project for flood victims in Pua and Phu Phiang districts of Nan Province, organized by Suan Dok Hospital Foundation in collaboration with Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University. On this occasion, Associate Professor Dr. Narent Chotirosnimit, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University,
along with faculty and administrators, also contributed pillows, blankets, and essential items for flood victims in Muang Tuet and Phai Kaeo subdistricts, Phu Phiang district, Nan Province. The handover ceremony took place at Wat Phra That Chae Haeng Royal Monastery, with Phra Kru Chantachetiyanukit, Assistant Abbot of Wat Phra That Chae Haeng and Chief Monk of Napang Subdistrict, participating.
This support is part of ongoing assistance for those affected by recent flooding in Nan Province, especially vulnerable groups lacking essential supplies for daily living and hygiene after the floodwaters receded. It reflects Viriyah Insurance’s commitment to supporting Thai society in managing risks across all situations.
The company aims to assist disaster victims through its Viriyah Volunteer Network, coordinating with various agencies and sectors to alleviate public hardship comprehensively and promptly, while encouraging community recovery to normalcy as soon as possible.
Red Bull Power Race Red Bull, under the TCP business group, concluded the Red Bull Power Race, a new fitness racing competition themed The Fastest Race, The Greatest Rush. After national qualifiers and the Thailand championship on 17 October, the Red Bull Power Race International Final was held on 18 October at Krungthep Aphiwat Central Terminal.
From 500 participants, 24 Thai representatives were selected to compete against 96 contestants from Malaysia, Myanmar, and Indonesia for the inaugural international championship and the Nations Trophy, awarded to the country with the best overall performance.
Ms. Supasita Kraisri, Global Marketing Executive President of TCP Group, stated that Red Bull Power Race was not conceived as just another sports competition but as an experience that truly challenges participants. Sports create a space where people from diverse backgrounds and locations connect through shared challenges.
She observed that from previous events to the Bangkok finale, people eagerly returned to compete and be part of this experience. For Red Bull, this represents a way to inspire individuals to challenge themselves and strive to surpass their limits.