PHNOM PENH/YANGON (Xinhua): A Mekong children's heart care project was officially launched in Cambodia on Monday, aiming at delivering life-saving treatment to children with congenital heart disease (CHD).
Funded by China through the Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund, the landmark project is implemented by the Mekong Institute, in close partnership with the Ministries of Health of Cambodia and Laos, with technical support from the Fuwai Hospital of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences.
"The project will screen at least 40,000 children in Cambodia, including 10,000 ultrasound screenings, provide full-cycle treatment for at least 40 children with CHD, and train more than 100 healthcare professionals," a press release said.
It added that the project will also provide essential medical equipment and support advanced training for Cambodian doctors.
Hok Kimcheng, director general for Health at Cambodia's Ministry of Health, said CHD remained a public health concern, affecting the lives of many children and families, early detection, timely diagnosis, and appropriate treatment are essential to improve the survival and quality of life.
"This project reflects our shared commitment to strengthen the health system through the technology transfer, capacity building, and regional cooperation," he said.
Kimcheng added that the project has adopted a comprehensive approach, combining school-based screening, advanced diagnostics, referral systems, treatment, and follow-up care.
"We are confident that this collaboration will not only benefit Cambodian children, but also contribute to the broader regional effort in addressing CHD," he said.
Suriyan Vichitlekarn, executive director of Mekong Institute, said the project reflected China's firm commitment to advancing the Global Development Initiative and accelerating progress toward the UN 2030 Agenda, as well as shared determination to improve access to care for children with CHD. -- Xinhua
