Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide—and it often remains silent—until it’s too late.
Early-stage lung cancer rarely causes symptoms, which is why thousands of lives are lost each year due to late diagnosis. Screening tests can help prevent cancer from progressing.
Chronic coughs or bloody sputum, shortness of breath, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, hoarseness, or fatigue are often symptoms of lung cancer. If these symptoms persist for several weeks, it’s strongly recommended to seek medical immediate medical attention.
Low-Dose CT SCAN is a powerful screening tool that can detect lung cancer at its earliest, most treatable stages. It is a non-invasive, quick, and highly sensitive scan that’s recommended for individuals at higher risk—especially those aged 50 and above with a history of smoking or long-term exposure to harmful air pollutants.
Unlike traditional chest X-rays, Low-Dose CT scan can detect even the smallest nodules, giving patients a better chance at successful treatment and survival.
If the CT scan results reveal abnormalities that require further investigation, the doctor may consider EBUS-TBNA (Endobronchial Ultrasound-Guided Transbronchial Needle Aspiration). It is a bronchoscopic technique combined with ultrasound that allows for precise visualization and sampling of tissue from lymph nodes or lesions within the chest—without the need for surgery.
EBUS-TBNA is suitable for people who have a lump in the chest or are at risk of lung cancer, as it offers a safe, accurate, and quick recovery option. If you or someone close to you experiences abnormal symptoms or detects a lump in the chest, don’t delay—consult your doctor promptly for proper evaluation.
A: Prostate cancer is a form of cancer that starts in the prostate gland, a small organ that produces seminal fluid to nourish and transport sperm. It is one of the most common cancers in men and often grows slowly without causing symptoms in early-stage.
Q: What causes prostate cancer?
A: Prostate cancer develops when genetic mutations cause cells in the prostate to grow uncontrollably and avoid dying. These abnormal cells can form a tumor, damage surrounding tissues, and potentially spread to other parts of the body (a process called metastasis).
Q: Who is at risk for prostate cancer?
A: Key risk factors include:
Age: Common in men over 50
Ethnicity: More prevalent in Black men
Family history: A close relative with prostate cancer increases risk; having BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations also raises risk
Obesity: Linked to higher chances of aggressive cancer
Q: What are common symptoms of prostate cancer?
A: Prostate cancer in its early stages may not cause symptoms. As it progresses, symptoms may include:
Difficulty urinating
Weak urine flow
Blood in urine (hematuria) or semen
Erectile dysfunction
Bone pain
Unintentional weight loss
If these symptoms persist, consult a doctor promptly.
Q: How is prostate cancer diagnosed?
A: Screening tests include:
Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A gloved finger is used to feel for abnormalities in the prostate
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: Elevated PSA levels can indicate inflammation, enlargement, or cancer
Q: What happens if prostate cancer screening results are abnormal?
A: If initial screening suggests abnormalities, further diagnostic tests may be recommended to confirm the presence of cancer. These include:
Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS): A small probe inserted into the rectum uses sound waves to produce images of the prostate
Prostate Biopsy: A thin needle is used to collect tissue samples from the prostate for laboratory analysis
Q: How is prostate cancer severity determined?
A: To evaluate how aggressive the cancer is, doctors commonly use two tools:
Gleason Score: Rates cancer aggressiveness from 6 to 10
6 = Low-grade
7 = Medium-grade
8–10 = High-grade
Genomic Testing: Identifies mutations and helps predict disease behavior
Q: How is prostate cancer staged?
A: After diagnosis, imaging tests like MRI, CT scans, PET scans, bone scans, or ultrasound help determine how far the cancer has spread:
Stage I–II: Localized in the prostate
Stage III: Spread to nearby tissues
Stage IV: Spread to distant organs
In some early-stage cases, immediate treatment may not be necessary. Instead, doctors may recommend active surveillance, which involves regular blood tests, rectal exams, and prostate biopsies to monitor the cancer over time. If the cancer shows signs of progression, treatment such as surgery or radiation can then be considered.
Q: What are the treatment options for prostate cancer?
A: Treatment depends on cancer stage, aggressiveness, health status, and personal preferences. Options include:
1. Surgery
Radical prostatectomy removes the prostate and surrounding tissues
Techniques include:
Robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy: Uses robotic tools through small abdominal incisions
Retropubic surgery: A long incision is made in the abdomen to access the prostate; less commonly used
2. Radiation Therapy
Kills cancer cells with high-energy rays
Options include:
External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): Delivered over weeks or in higher doses over fewer sessions
Brachytherapy: Radioactive seeds are implanted into the prostate for continuous low-dose radiation
3. Focal Therapy
Targets only the cancerous portion of the prostate
Techniques include:
High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)
Cryotherapy
Laser ablation
Photodynamic therapy
4. Ablation Therapy (Freezing or Heating)
Destroys prostate tissue using extreme temperatures
Methods include:
Cryoablation: Freezes cancer cells
HIFU: Uses focused ultrasound waves to heat and kill cancer tissue
Suitable for small or inoperable cancers and when other treatments aren’t an option
5. Hormone Therapy (Androgen Deprivation Therapy)
Reduces testosterone, which fuels cancer growth
Approaches include:
LHRH/GnRH agonists or antagonists: Suppress testosterone production
Anti-androgens: Block testosterone from reaching cancer cells
Orchiectomy: Surgical removal of testicles to quickly lower testosterone levels
Used before surgery, for inoperable cancer, or to slow advanced cancer
6. Chemotherapy
Uses drugs to kill fast-growing cells
Often recommended when cancer has spread, or hormone therapy fails
7. Targeted Drug Therapy
Focuses on specific mutations (e.g., BRCA) in cancer cells, helps block abnormal growth pathways and promote cancer cell death
Q: Can prostate cancer be cured?
A: Yes. Localized prostate cancer is often curable, especially with early detection. In advanced cases, treatments can manage the disease, relieve symptoms, and extend life expectancy.
Q: When should I see a doctor?
A: You should consider seeing a doctor for prostate cancer screening if you:
Are over 50 years old
Have a family history of prostate or breast cancer (including BRCA1/BRCA2 gene mutations)
Belong to a higher-risk group, such as Black men
Experience urinary or reproductive changes, bone pain, or unexplained weight loss
Even without symptoms, early screening is recommended for those at higher risk. Regular checkups improve the chances of detecting prostate cancer early when it is most treatable.
At Vejthani Hospital, every prostate cancer case is reviewed with precision through our Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) approach. This means specialists—including oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, oncology pharmacists, physiotherapists, psychologists, geneticists, and oncology nurses—collaborate during our weekly Tumor Board Conference to analyze patients’ medical data and develop the most effective, personalized treatment plan. By combining medical expertise with integrated care, our goal is to ensure each patient receives accurate, timely, and comprehensive treatment—enhancing both outcomes and quality of life.
Obesity is a growing global health concern that significantly affects overall well-being. Beyond its visible impact on self-confidence and physical appearance, Obesity increases the risk of serious health complications, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain forms of cancer. For people struggling with Obesity, achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can be challenging despite lifestyle changes. However, effective and safe medical interventions—known as bariatric surgery, particularly gastric sleeve surgery—offer a proven solution. These procedures not only support sustainable weight loss but also contribute to long-term improvements in health and reduces the risks of developing chronic kidney diseases in patients with MASH or MASLD in combination with Obesity and diabetes.
What is “Sleeve Gastrectomy”?
Sleeve gastrectomy is a type of bariatric Surgery designed to support significant and sustainable weight loss. The procedure involves removing the area responsible for producing the hunger hormone (ghrelin) in the stomach. As a result, patients feel full more quickly and experience a reduced appetite, making it easier to control food intake.
This surgical approach is typically recommended for people with Obesity who have not achieved sufficient weight loss through diet and exercise alone. Sleeve gastrectomy has been proven effective in promoting long-term weight loss.
Sleeve gastrectomy is not a quick fix, but a medically guided weight-loss solution that requires a commitment to healthier eating habits and regular physical activity to ensure long-term success.
Benefits of Sleeve gastrectomy for Obesity
Reduces obesity-related complications: Successful weight loss helps lower the risk of conditions associated with Obesity, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
Improves quality of life: Patients often experience increased energy, improved mobility, and greater confidence in their appearance after losing weight.
Lowers long-term mortality risk: Sleeve gastrectomy has been shown to reduce the long-term risk of death from obesity-related conditions.
What happens during the Surgery?
Bariatric surgery is commonly performed using advanced laparoscopic technology, making it a minimally invasive procedure. This approach results in smaller incisions, less postoperative pain, and a faster recovery compared to traditional open Surgery.
Several surgical techniques are available, and the surgeon will determine the most suitable approach based on the patient’s health records. Currently, there are four primary approaches used in clinical practice:
1. Sleeve Gastrectomy or Gastric Sleeve
The procedure involves removing approximately 75–80% of the stomach, reducing its capacity to around 150–200 cc. This not only significantly decreases the stomach’s volume but also reduces the body’s production of the hunger hormone, ghrelin. As a result, patients feel full more quickly and consume less food, leading to effective weight loss—without affecting the absorption of calories and nutrients in the intestines.
It is a weight-loss surgery that restructures the digestive system by creating a small pouch from the upper portion of the stomach and connecting it directly to the upper part of the small intestine, forming a Y-shaped pathway. This rerouting causes most food to bypass the larger section of the stomach and the initial segment of the small intestine, thereby reducing calorie and nutrient absorption. Additionally, the procedure lowers the release of appetite-regulating hormones, helping patients feel full more quickly and consume less food.
3. Sleeve Plus Surgery
This procedure combines a standard sleeve gastrectomy with the bypass of approximately 300 cm of the small intestine, further reducing the absorption of calories and nutrients. It helps patients feel full more quickly and typically results in greater weight loss compared to sleeve gastrectomy alone.
4. OAGB (One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass)
This procedure reduces the stomach size by about 15–20% by creating a new smaller pouch, which is then directly connected to the jejunum (a part of the small intestine) without removing the original stomach. Performed through small incisions, OAGB typically leads to faster weight loss compared to other techniques and has shown to be particularly effective in improving obesity-related conditions such as diabetes.
Who is eligible for Bariatric Surgery for weight loss?
Bariatric surgery is not suitable for everyone seeking to lose weight. Before proceeding, doctors conduct a physical examination and screening to determine if patients meet the necessary criteria:
People with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or who have poorly controlled diabetes.
People with a BMI of 32.5 or higher with comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea.
People with a BMI of 37.5.
Those who are physically and mentally prepared—patients must be healthy enough to undergo surgery and committed to making long-term changes to their eating habits and lifestyle after the procedure.
People who understand the potential risks and side effects—patients must be fully informed and provide consent regarding the risks associated with the surgery.
Calculating BMI
The formula to calculate BMI (Body Mass Index) is:
BMI = Weight (kg) ÷ Height (m)²
Example:
If a person weighs 50 kilograms and is 160 centimeters tall, their BMI would be calculated as follows:
BMI = 50 ÷ (1.60 * 1.60) = 19.5
For those considering bariatric surgery for weight loss, it is essential to consult an experienced doctor who can assess each individual’s condition and develop the most appropriate treatment plan. Bariatric surgery is not a shortcut to weight loss but rather an effective and safe tool for patients with a medical necessity who are prepared to commit to significant lifestyle changes.
Consultations are available at Vejthani Hospital for those interested in weight loss and obesity treatment through bariatric surgery. We offer accurate guidance, diagnosis, and treatment around the clock, supported by a team of specialists in personalized weight management and equipped with advanced medical technology. Our expert surgeons are highly experienced and committed to providing safe and effective weight loss solutions designed for each individual’s needs.
A Single Cigarette Destroys the Body in Multiple Ways. Every year on May 31st, the World Health Organization (WHO) designates the day as World No Tobacco Day to raise global awareness about the dangers of smoking and its undeniable impact on health.
Cigarettes contain over 7,000 chemicals, including more than 250 toxic substances and over 70 known carcinogens. These harmful compounds affect various bodily systems and contribute to the development of numerous diseases.
Cardiovascular Diseases: Smoking even a few cigarettes a day damages the heart and blood vessels. Toxic substances in cigarettes cause heart arrhythmia and coronary artery disease.
Emphysema: Smoking is a primary cause of shortness of breath and fatigue. In severe cases, patients may become bedridden or require continuous oxygen.
Cancer: Cigarettes are a leading cause of various types of cancers, especially lung cancer. Individuals at risk are advised to undergo screening with low-dose computed tomography (low-dose CT Scan).
Osteoporosis: Nicotine damages bone-forming cells and accelerates bone loss.
Diabetes: Toxic substances accumulate in the pancreas, impairing its function and leading to elevated blood sugar levels, which can result in diabetes.
Pneumonitis: Smoking damages the respiratory tract lining, increasing susceptibility to respiratory infections.
Infant and Child Health: Research shows that secondhand and thirdhand smoke adversely affect children’s health, increasing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), respiratory infections, asthma, allergies, and impairing brain development and intelligence.
Moreover, the harmful effects of smoking impact not only internal health but also outward appearance and personal image—especially in social interactions and daily life. The sooner you quit smoking, the greater the benefits—for your health and the health of those you love.
Some people grow up never realizing they were born with a heart defect — until one day; their body starts sending signals like feeling unusually fatigued, palpitations, chest tightness, or shortness of breath during physical activity, even at a young age.
An Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) is a congenital heart condition where there’s a hole in the wall (septum) that separates the left and right atria of the heart. Many people with this condition are unaware of it because symptoms may not appear in childhood and tend to become noticeable only as they get older. Without proper treatment, ASD can lead to complications such as enlarged heart, pulmonary hypertension, heart failure, heart arrhythmia, or in some cases, a stroke may be the first noticeable sign.
Diagnosis of ASD includes a review of medical history, physical examination, and initial laboratory tests such as electrocardiogram (ECG), chest X-ray, and echocardiography — either Transthoracic Echocardiogram (TTE) or Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE) for a clearer view.
Treatment options for ASD are divided into four approaches:
Monitor Only: For patients with very small defects who have no symptoms or complications, regular check-ups and echocardiograms may be sufficient. Preventive antibiotics may be recommended before dental or high-risk procedures to reduce the risk of infection.
Medication: Manage symptoms of heart failure or control heart arrhythmia, if present.
Surgery: Recommended for large or multiple defects that cannot be closed using catheter-based techniques. This requires a hospital stay for post-operative recovery.
Transcatheter ASD Closure: A minimally invasive procedure that closes the hole in the septum using a special device inserted through a vein in the groin. This method does not use the open-heart surgery approach, it involves a small groin incision, reduces surgical risks, and enables faster recovery.
Early signs of heart conditions are often easy to miss. If you have a family history of Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) or are experiencing unusual symptoms, a quick heart screening could help prevent serious complications in the future.
May 28 of every year marks the International Day of Action for women’s health, a global reminder of the importance of women’s health—physically, mentally, and the right to equal healthcare. One crucial aspect that many women often overlook is the annual pelvic exam.
Why is an Annual Pelvic Exam Important?
A pelvic exam does more than screen for cervical cancer. It plays a crucial role in detecting early signs of conditions affecting the uterus, ovaries, and vagina—including infections, inflammation, and other abnormalities. The exam takes just a few minutes, but when combined with a Pap smear or HPV DNA test, it vastly improves the chances of early detection. Cervical cancer is highly treatable when caught early—don’t miss this critical step in protecting your health.
Who Should Get an Annual Pelvic Exam?
Women aged 25 and above, or those who have been sexually active, should have a pelvic exam once a year—especially those with a family history of cancer or who experience symptoms such as unusual vaginal discharge, spotting, or chronic pelvic pain.
Women’s health can be complex, and many conditions show no apparent symptoms in the early stages. Therefore, a pelvic exam acts as a preventive checkup, giving you peace of mind about your health at every stage of life.
As we age, our body and organs gradually deteriorate, and the eyes are among the most vital organs that should not be overlooked. There are several common eye conditions among older adults, such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma — a condition that often develops without warning signs and can eventually lead to vision loss.
Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness worldwide. It can affect people of all ages and is characterized by damage to the optic nerve, which results in permanent loss of visual fields and vision. One of the major risk factors for glaucoma is ocular hypertension, which may occur naturally due to aging or be triggered by external factors such as medication use, surgery, injury, or underlying health conditions. Glaucoma typically does not present symptoms in its early stages, but once warning signs appear, it is important to see a doctor promptly. If left untreated, the condition can progress and result in irreversible vision loss.
Warning signs of glaucoma that require immediate medical attention:
Noticeable decrease in vision
Loss of peripheral (side) vision
Severe pain or unusual redness in the eye
Seeing rainbow-colored halos around lights
Eye symptoms accompanied by nausea or vomiting
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should consult an ophthalmologist. Today, there are advanced treatment options for glaucoma, including Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT), Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI), Cyclophotocoagulation, and surgical procedures that are now less invasive, offer quicker recovery, and carry lower risks. The choice of treatment depends on the type and severity of glaucoma, as well as the patient’s overall health. It is essential to undergo diagnosis by a specialized medical team to develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Diabetes is a prevalent chronic condition and a key contributor to delayed wound healing. Without proper care, even minor wounds can lead to serious complications. Today’s advanced medical technologies offer practical solutions to enhance diabetic wound treatment, minimize infection risks, and promote faster healing.
Dr. Choedpong Chatjaturapat, a vascular surgeon at Vejthani Hospital, explains that diabetic foot ulcers are a common complication among diabetic patients. Impaired blood circulation deprives tissues of oxygen and nutrients, leading to delayed wound healing and an increased risk of infection.
Poor blood circulation, which slows wound healing and increases the risk of infection.
Nerve degeneration (Neuropathy), which causes a lack of sensation to injuries.
Infections, with a weakened immune system, make it more susceptible to infections.
Most diabetic patients have persistently high blood sugar levels, which can weaken the immune system and increase their susceptibility to infections. Additionally, diabetes often causes numbness in the hands and feet. As a result, patients may overlook injuries when they occur, delaying treatment and allowing wounds to worsen, potentially leading to serious complications.
Now there are medical technologies that help accelerate wound healing, reduce the risk of infection, and prevent complications.
Special technologies and techniques for treating diabetic ulcers are as follows:
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a treatment with 100% pure oxygen in a high-pressure regulator. It helps stimulate tissue growth and improves oxygen delivery to areas that are lacking proper blood flow.
Oxygen Therapy Technology (NATROX) is a treatment for chronic wounds by directly delivering pure oxygen to the wound, which stimulates tissue regeneration, increases oxygen at the wound site, promotes healing, reduces inflammation, and lowers the risk of infection.
Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) or Vacuum Assisted Closure (VAC system) is a wound care device that uses a vacuum system to assist in the treatment of wounds that cannot be closed by suturing.
Wound debridement is an innovative technique for removing dead tissue using high-pressure water (Hydro Surgery), allowing for more precise and efficient tissue removal, reducing tissue loss.
Endovascular Therapy is a minimally invasive procedure to improve blood circulation to the affected area of the wound.
Special Shoes for Diabetic Patients help reduce the risk of recurring wounds after treatment.
Patients should take proactive care of their health by avoiding walking barefoot, regularly monitoring for physical changes, and maintaining proper blood sugar levels to reduce the risk of ulcers and serious complications. Minor wounds should be kept clean, but if a wound worsens or heals slowly, prompt medical attention is essential to ensure proper treatment.
Many people tend to dismiss back pain, thinking, “It’s just a minor ache—it’ll go away on its own.” But did you know that persistent pain in the back and neck could be an early sign of a herniated disc? Often overlooked, this condition can worsen over time if left untreated, potentially leading to more severe symptoms and a longer road to recovery.
Dr. Kitidate Boonchai, a spine surgeon at Vejthani Hospital, explained that a herniated disc is a condition in which the spinal disc that absorbs shock and helps the spine move flexibly, tears or shifts out of its normal position. This can compress the nearby nerves, causing pain and numbness in various parts of the body, especially in the back, neck, hips, or legs.
The symptoms of a herniated disc vary depending on the location of the disc and the severity of nerve compression, such as:
Chronic back or neck pain, especially when moving or lifting heavy objects
Radiating pain along the nerves, extending down the leg for a lower back herniation or pain radiating to the arm for a neck herniation.
Numbness or weakness in the legs, arms, or hands
Tingling or sharp, electric shock-like pain when moving or in certain positions
Muscle weakness or difficulty with movement
If left untreated, the condition can progress and lead to more serious symptoms, including muscle weakness, atrophy, increased radiating pain and numbness, and even difficulty controlling the bladder or bowels.
Causes of herniated discs can vary and include several risk factors such as: being between the ages of 30 and 50; improper use of the spine—like lifting heavy objects or sitting and standing with poor posture; accidents or injuries that directly impact the spine; excess body weight (obesity), which increases pressure on the spine; and lack of exercise, which weakens the back muscles and reduces their ability to support the spine.
To diagnose a herniated disc pressing on a nerve, doctors primarily rely on a detailed medical history and a physical examination. Additional tests, such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), may also be used to identify the root cause of back pain more accurately.
For patients with a herniated disc who experience mild symptoms or are in the early stages, treatment may involve pain relief medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. However, if symptoms do not improve within six months—or if they worsen and begin to interfere with daily life, such as severe radiating leg pain, difficulty sleeping, limited mobility, or problems with bladder or bowel control—surgery may be considered. Currently, there is a minimally invasive surgical technique that uses an endoscope, making the incision about 1 centimeter in size. This approach minimizes tissue damage, leads to less post-operative pain, shortens hospital stays, and promotes a faster return to previous lifestyle.
While we may not be able to avoid herniated discs caused by age-related degeneration, we can slow their progression and reduce the severity by minimizing risk factors. These include maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, having a well-balanced diet, practicing proper posture when sitting, standing, bending, or lifting heavy objects, frequently changing sitting positions during work, and preventing accidents that may impact the spine.
