Latest news with #MahidolUniversity
Bangkok Post
18-07-2025
- General
- Bangkok Post
Mahidol University's iconic trams near the end of the road
After serving students and staff at Mahidol University's Salaya campus for almost two decades, iconic trams are moving closer to their final stop. Mahidol University announced in a Facebook post on Thursday that its campus tram service will be retired in September, though the exact date has yet to be confirmed. The trams will be replaced by electric minibuses, which the university said would offer improved safety and convenience. 'Although the tram service is coming to an end, it will be in our memory forever,' the post read. The four-wheeled electric trams have been running through the campus in Buddha Monthon district, Nakhon Pathom, since 2007, serving students, faculty, staff, and visitors from 6am to 8pm on weekdays and until 6pm on weekends. The initiative aimed to promote public transport use and support environmental sustainability. 'What we have been seeing will soon be changed,' the university added. Present and past passengers have started sending farewell messages to their beloved trams. "Trams are not only a vehicle. They are part of my life," a Facebook follower named Earth wrote. "I have used it since I was a freshy. You're still in my life since I graduated and returned to teach in Salaya. I'll miss you, the tram," Araya Arjcharoen Theanhom wrote. For a follower like Sunny Aser Richman, the trams are more than a vehicle moving commuters from one building to another.
Asia News Network
18-07-2025
- Health
- Asia News Network
Thai mental health crisis deepens amid shrinking population, finds report
July 18, 2025 BANGKOK – Thailand is facing a pressing public health crisis, with a new report highlighting a significant surge in mental health issues and a troubling decline in the nation's birth rate. The 'Thai Health Report 2025,' launched by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) and Mahidol University on Thursday, reveals stark figures that serve as a critical warning for society. The report's findings on mental health are particularly concerning. It found that 13.4 million Thais have experienced mental health problems or psychiatric disorders. Alarmingly, the successful suicide rate in Thailand has continuously increased over the past decade, with a notable rise among youth aged 15-29. This demographic faces heightened stress, anxiety, depression, and a high risk of suicide, often attributed to academic pressures, the pervasive 'Fear of Missing Out' (FOMO) from social media, domestic violence, and intense societal expectations. In a poignant finding on positive mental health, the pre-elderly group (45-59 years old) reported the lowest levels of happiness, reflecting emotional vulnerability during this transitional life stage. While one-third of Thais possess high mental health literacy, misconceptions persist, such as the stigmatising view of suicide as a sign of weakness. Birth Rate Slump and Policy Concerns Beyond mental well-being, the report's special feature, 'Falling Birth Rates: How to Adjust and Cope, ' details that Thailand's birth rate has reached an all-time low. This demographic shift is primarily driven by socio-economic changes: the evolving roles of women, escalating living costs, a greater emphasis on work-life balance, and a younger generation's desire for independence, often viewing children as an overwhelming burden. This underscores an urgent need for Thai society to adapt and prepare for long-term consequences, focusing on quality of life for existing children, creating a supportive environment for youth, attracting skilled migrants, redefining 'elderly,' extending retirement age, and planning for a hyper-aged society. The report also identifies ten prominent health situations commanding public attention: Alcohol Law Amendments: Close monitoring of social and health impacts. E-cigarettes: An aggressive and growing health threat. Medical Cannabis: Ongoing policy confusion. Legalised Casinos: The report questions whether potential benefits outweigh the costs. 'The iCon' Pyramid Scheme: Lessons to prevent future victimization. Passenger Bus Accidents: Raising critical questions about safety standards. Northern Flood Management: Reducing disaster risks. Blackchin Tilapia: Managing invasive alien species. Industrial Waste & Hazardous Waste Management: The complexity of government measures. Life in Debt: A major and pervasive issue for Thai households. Call for Collaborative Action Dr Pongthep Wongwatcharapaiboon, Manager of ThaiHealth, stressed the report's importance in providing crucial health data and fostering academic exchange. ThaiHealth hopes that government agencies will use the 'Thai Health Report 2025' to shape policies, track progress, and drive health promotion efforts that align with the current health realities facing Thais. The findings are intended to kickstart 'social communication' that leads to impactful public policies, ultimately fostering improved well-being for all citizens.
Straits Times
17-07-2025
- Health
- Straits Times
Thai mental health crisis deepens amid shrinking population, report finds
Find out what's new on ST website and app. The report found that 13.4 million Thais have experienced mental health problems or psychiatric disorders. Thailand is facing a pressing public health crisis, with a new report highlighting a significant surge in mental health issues and a troubling decline in the nation's birth rate. The Thai Health Report 2025, launched by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) and Mahidol University on July 17 , reveals stark figures that serve as a critical warning for society. The report's findings on mental health are particularly concerning. It found that 13.4 million Thais have experienced mental health problems or psychiatric disorders. Alarmingly, the suicide rate in Thailand has continuously increased over the past decade, with a notable rise among youth aged between 15 and 29. This demographic faces heightened stress, anxiety, depression, and a high risk of suicide, often attributed to academic pressures, the pervasive 'fear of missing out' from social media, domestic violence, and intense societal expectations. In a poignant finding on positive mental health, the pre-elderly group (45-59 years old) reported the lowest levels of happiness, reflecting emotional vulnerability during this transitional life stage. While one-third of Thais possess high mental health literacy, misconceptions persist, such as the stigmatising view of suicide as a sign of weakness. Beyond mental well-being, the report's special feature, Falling Birth Rates: How To Adjust And Cope, details that Thailand's birth rate has reached an all-time low. This demographic shift is primarily driven by socio-economic changes: the evolving roles of women, escalating living costs, a greater emphasis on work-life balance, and a younger generation's desire for independence, often viewing children as an overwhelming burden. 'Even with diverse pro-birth measures in other countries – from childcare support and extended maternity leave to financial subsidies – they have largely failed to increase the desire for children,' noted Associate Professor Bhubate Samutachak of Mahidol University. This underscores an urgent need for Thai society to adapt and prepare for long-term consequences, focusing on quality of life for existing children, creating a supportive environment for youth, attracting skilled migrants, redefining 'elderly,' extending retirement age, and planning for a hyper-aged society. The report also identifies other public health concerns, including e-cigarettes, medical cannabis and the impact of casinos. Dr Pongthep Wongwatcharapaiboon, manager of ThaiHealth, stressed the report's importance in providing crucial health data and fostering academic exchange. ThaiHealth hopes that government agencies will use the Thai Health Report 2025 to shape policies, track progress, and drive health promotion efforts that align with the current health realities facing Thais. The findings are intended to kick-start social communication that leads to impactful public policies, ultimately fostering improved well-being for all citizens. THE NATION/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
Bangkok Post
07-07-2025
- Health
- Bangkok Post
Protecting Thailand's Youngest and Oldest from RSV, Flu
Bangkok, July 7, 2025 — As Thailand transitions from the rainy to early winter seasons, respiratory infections surge dramatically, making awareness and proper prevention crucial. Recognising this urgent public health concern, Sanofi Thailand supported a vital Health Talk session at Thailand Healthcare 2025 under the topic: "Infants Catch It Easily, the Elderly are at High Risk: Understanding RSV and Influenza." The session featured distinguished medical experts Prof. Dr. Sasisopin Kiertiburanakul and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sophida Boonsathorn Reeves, infectious disease specialists from the Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University. They shared comprehensive knowledge and strategic prevention approaches to protect families, with particular focus on the most vulnerable groups: newborns, infants, and seniors aged 65 and above. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) represents a significant threat as a primary cause of respiratory infections in newborns and infants (0–2 years). The virus spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing, as well as contact with contaminated surfaces. Its reach is extensive—nearly all children will contract RSV at least once by age five, with an overwhelming 90% infected by age two and 50% within their first year of life. RSV outbreaks are mostly seasonal. In Thailand, the outbreak typically begins with the rainy season around June to July, peaks between August and October, and gradually declines in November and December. A common misconception among new mothers is that babies who stay indoors are automatically safe. However, this false sense of security overlooks the reality that family members can unknowingly bring the virus home, putting even homebound infants at substantial risk. RSV manifests through symptoms including persistent coughing, characteristic wheezing, thick mucus production, and high fever. Particularly concerning is that one in three infected children may progress to severe lower respiratory tract infections like pneumonia or bronchiolitis. The absence of specific treatment for RSV—with care limited to supportive measures—underscores the critical importance of prevention, especially for infants under 12 months. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sophida Boonsathorn Reeves emphasised this urgency: "Infants under one year—whether full-term, premature, or with underlying conditions—are all at risk of severe RSV, potentially requiring ICU care or even resulting in death." Recent medical advances have introduced RSV monoclonal antibodies that can be administered directly to provide immediate protection. Compelling clinical evidence demonstrates their effectiveness in reducing hospitalisations from lower respiratory tract infections by 79.5%, decreasing overall RSV-related hospitalisations by 83.2%, and reducing ICU admissions by 75.3%. The Royal College of Paediatricians of Thailand (RCPedT) has issued comprehensive clinical practice guidelines for the use of Nirsevimab. It is recommended that all healthy newborns and infants under eight months of age receive Nirsevimab, with consideration also given to healthy infants aged 8 to 12 months. Ideally, the antibody should be administered prior to the onset of the RSV season, which typically spans from June to October each year. For infants born during this period, Nirsevimab should be given as soon as possible after birth. The protection begins immediately upon administration and provides immunity for at least six months throughout the RSV season. Prof. Dr. Sasisopin Kiertiburanakul, an infectious disease specialist, reported alarming statistics: within just the first half of 2025, Thailand documented over 370,000 influenza cases resulting in 51 deaths, predominantly among seniors aged 65 and over due to naturally weakened immunity and existing health conditions. Annual influenza vaccination is essential, particularly during the rainy to early winter season when transmission rates peak. Seniors are strongly advised to consult their healthcare providers about timely vaccination. Prof. Dr. Sasisopin explained this vulnerability: "Older adults face heightened risks due to weakened immunity and chronic illnesses like heart, kidney, or lung disease. Influenza can significantly worsen these underlying conditions, potentially leading to serious complications or death." Two distinct vaccine formulations are available: the standard dose for individuals aged six months and older, and the high-dose formulation specifically designed for adults aged 65 and above. The high-dose vaccine contains four times more antigen to generate a stronger immune response in older recipients. Extensive research demonstrates that high-dose vaccines substantially reduce influenza infection risk by 24%, decrease hospitalisation rates by 64%, and lower mortality by 49% compared to standard-dose alternatives. High-dose influenza vaccines have maintained an excellent safety and efficacy record in the United States and Europe for over a decade, with more than 200 million doses administered globally. Both the World Health Organization and Thailand's Department of Disease Control confirm that three-strain and four-strain influenza vaccines offer comparable protection levels, noting that the B/Yamagata strain has not circulated significantly since 2020. Consequently, three-strain vaccines currently provide adequate immunological coverage. Conclusion As seasonal patterns elevate RSV and influenza prevalence, comprehensive awareness and implementation of appropriate preventive strategies are vital to protect yourself and your loved ones. Sanofi Thailand maintains its steadfast commitment to enhancing immunity among Thai people, reducing the burden of preventable illnesses, and fostering improved long-term health outcomes nationwide.
Bangkok Post
03-07-2025
- Health
- Bangkok Post
Synphaet, Mahidol Launch National Vascular Surgery Centre
A major step towards enhancing specialised healthcare and positioning Thailand as a regional Medical & Wellness Hub has been taken with the launch of the 'SYNPHAET MARAVAS Vascular Surgery Centre,' developed through a collaboration between Synphaet Hospital and Mahidol University. The centre aims to deliver advanced vascular care nationwide while integrating academic research, innovative treatment technologies, and a patient-centred approach into Thailand's growing healthcare infrastructure. To mark the occasion, Synphaet Hospital—led by Dr Sitti Panupattanapong, Chairman of Synphaet Group and event chairperson—held a press conference in collaboration with Mahidol University at the 8th Floor Conference Room, Synphaet Medical Centre Building, Synphaet Ramintra Hospital. The event was attended by over 200 participants, including medical personnel from the Synphaet Hospital Network, Mahidol University, health insurance representatives, and industry partners. SYNPHAET MARAVAS Vascular Surgery Centre operates under the supervision of Mahidol University and Associate Professor Dr Piyanut Pootracool, a vascular surgeon who has developed innovative treatments for vascular diseases – silent threats increasingly prevalent among Thailand's ageing population. Vascular diseases, including arterial and venous conditions, can lead to limb loss or life-threatening complications if they affect critical organs such as the brain or heart. This collaboration bridges academic knowledge and practical healthcare between Mahidol University and Synphaet Hospital, a leading private hospital group, to develop advanced skills and treatment technologies for vascular diseases. The centre aspires to become an Excellence Vascular Wellness and Transplant Centre, operating under medical school standards with internationally accredited hospitals to promote minimally invasive techniques for faster patient recovery. Specialist vascular surgeons will lead treatments and establish an extensive healthcare network to elevate the quality of life for both Thai and international patients. Synphaet Hospital, a large private hospital group capable of handling complex and critical cases with comprehensive medical technologies, currently operates eight branches in Bangkok, its vicinity, and provincial areas, with plans for further expansion nationwide. This aims to ensure rapid, effective treatment for urgent and emergency cases from all regions. During the event, Dr Sitti Panupattanapong, Chairman of Synphaet Group, opened the press conference, stating that this collaboration marks a 'turning point' for Synphaet Hospital in upgrading specialised care standards with an integrated system founded on strong academic knowledge. He explained that the project arose from cooperation between Synphaet's medical team and the MARAVAS research team, led by Associate Professor Dr Piyanut Pootracool, to transfer Mahidol University's medical innovations and technologies to real-world health services, especially for vascular treatments and organ transplants. He emphasised that establishing the vascular surgery centre is a pivotal step towards providing people with convenient, rapid, and broad access to medical school-standard care, especially high-risk patients—aligning with the hospital's goal of proactive health promotion and reducing the burden on the public healthcare system. Dr Sitti concluded by thanking Mahidol University, the MARAVAS research team, healthcare professionals, and the media for their support in this strategic collaboration, expressing confidence that SYNPHAET MARAVAS will become a leading medical innovation and treatment centre to truly improve Thai people's quality of life. Professor Piyamitr Sritara, MD, FRCP, President of Mahidol University, congratulated Synphaet Hospital on the centre's opening, highlighting the importance of fostering medical innovation as Thailand transitions into an ageing society and faces growing non-communicable disease (NCD) challenges. Mahidol University is committed to developing applicable knowledge and innovations to sustainably improve public well-being. Under this concept, 'MARAVAS' was created by Associate Professor Dr Piyanut Pootracool as a centre for training and skill development in vascular surgery and renal transplantation, adhering to international standards. He stated that collaboration with Synphaet Hospital is a significant milestone in transferring innovations from the laboratory to real-world healthcare, enhancing treatment access and supporting Thailand's ambition to become a global Medical & Wellness Hub. He concluded by thanking executives, faculty, and staff involved in realising the MARAVAS project, expressing confidence that MARAVAS will create 'real-world impact' and sustainably enhance patients' quality of life. Dr Thanin Wechapinan, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Medical Services, Ministry of Public Health, also congratulated Synphaet Hospital and Mahidol University's MARAVAS innovation on launching the centre. He stated that MARAVAS innovations reflect a clear commitment to driving Thailand's healthcare system by integrating medical innovations and intellectual assets to create accessible, context-appropriate technologies and service models. MARAVAS acts as a driving mechanism for innovation development and practical medical applications, focusing on integrating vascular surgery and organ transplant knowledge to improve people's lives through prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. This enhances nationwide healthcare service accessibility, strengthens medical personnel capacity, and contributes to the tangible and sustainable advancement of Thailand's public health system. Dr Aswin Ingkakul, Chairman of Miracle Group, spoke about policies to promote 'Quality Tourism' integrated with health infrastructure. He noted that today's tourism trends have shifted from mere leisure to seeking health experiences, rehabilitation, and sustainable preventive care. Dr Aswin sees the opening of SYNPHAET MARAVAS as establishing 'health infrastructure' that aligns with these policies by combining high-standard medical services with friendly, patient-centred hospitality for both Thai and foreign patients. Miracle Group, with its strong presence in hotels, international conferences, and integrated services, is ready to support and further this policy by creating a 'Medical & Wellness Ecosystem' that sustainably integrates healthcare, business, and tourism sectors. He emphasised that health platforms like MARAVAS will play a vital role in building confidence among quality tourists, enhancing Thailand's image, and propelling the country to become a regional and global Medical & Wellness Hub in the future. A highlight of the event was an academic panel discussion titled 'SYNPHAET MARAVAS for Sustainable Vascular Health', featuring: Associate Professor Dr Viriya Taecharungroj, Director of the Institute for Technology and Innovation Management (INT), Mahidol University Associate Professor Dr Piyanut Pootracool, inventor of the MARAVAS approach and Head of Vascular Surgery Dr Phisut Phromlikitchai, Medical Director, Synphaet Ramintra Hospital Dr Burin Lauhawattana, Synphaet Theparak Hospital The event was moderated by Ms Onwalun Lohitarn, Deputy Director of the Institute for Technology and Innovation Management (INT), Mahidol University. The panel underscored the shared goal of advancing proactive healthcare under MARAVAS standards, covering disease screening, personalised health monitoring platforms, AI-based risk analysis, and public health promotion to serve both domestic and international patients. The establishment of the SYNPHAET MARAVAS Vascular Surgery Centre marks a crucial step in integrating academic knowledge with healthcare services to create a 'holistic vascular disease care model' that can be expanded to private hospital networks domestically and internationally, supporting Thailand's ambition to become a true Medical & Wellness Hub. The event concluded with a group photo session and an exclusive interview with executives discussing the future of Thailand's medical and healthcare system.
