Local hospital boast 100% cancer surgery success rate

2026-02-16 - 04:26

KALASIN — 16 February 2026, A district hospital in northeastern Thailand has reported a 100% success rate in laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer after screening more than 1,200 people over the past three years. Yang Talat Hospital in Kalasin said it had carried out free colonoscopy screenings on 1,222 people since the 2023 fiscal year, detecting 19 cases of colorectal cancer. All 19 patients underwent successful laparoscopic surgery and have since returned to normal daily life, hospital officials said. The hospital has now entered its fourth year of the programme, with screenings scheduled from February to May 2026. A total of 567 people are being targeted for colonoscopy screening this year. The project was formally launched at the hospital by Yang Talat district chief Ekarat Misa, alongside provincial and local health officials, medical staff and village health volunteers. Hospital director Dr. Samanmit Attanak said colorectal cancer ranks among the top three most common cancers in Thailand for both men and women and is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in many countries. He said regular screening and early detection can significantly reduce mortality rates. While several screening methods are available, the faecal immunochemical test (FIT) is a simple and rapid initial option. Patients with positive results are referred for further examination. Colonoscopy remains the most widely accepted and accurate screening method, he said, as it not only detects abnormalities but also allows for immediate treatment in some cases. According to hospital data, 445 people underwent colonoscopy screening in the 2023 fiscal year, with six cancers detected, all treated surgically at the hospital. In 2024, 323 people were screened and eight cancers found and operated on. In 2025, 454 people were screened, with five cancers detected and treated. Across the three years, 19 cases were identified and all 19 surgeries were successful. Dr. Samanmit said the hospital, in partnership with the Yang Talat district health network, aims to ensure residents have access to standardised cancer screening by trained specialists, reducing travel costs and improving survival rates through early-stage treatment. Under the 2026 programme, screenings will be conducted on Fridays, with capacity for 30 patients per day, and Sundays, with capacity for 20 patients per day. The target group includes residents aged 50 and over in Yang Talat district and neighbouring districts of Huai Mek, Nong Kung Si and Tha Khantho.