According to statistics from the National Cancer Institute, the most common cancers among Thai women are breast and cervical — both among the leading causes of death in women worldwide. Raising public awareness is therefore of utmost importance, encompassing early screening, prevention and equitable access to effective treatment. When detected early, cancer in women can often be successfully treated, greatly improving survival rates.
In light of this, Central Group recently organised the Cancer Care Fair under the “Central Group Women Cancer” initiative — now in its 20th year — to continue its mission of supporting women’s health. The project aims to raise funds to purchase essential medical equipment for Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital, enhancing early detection and treatment of women’s cancers and offering better chances of recovery for at-risk groups and patients in need.
Supatra Chirathivat of Central Group said access to proper treatment and emotional support during life’s most challenging moments are fundamental rights for every woman.
“The Cancer Care Fair is not only a fundraising platform but also a space of compassion — reflecting love, understanding and collaboration across all sectors to bring hope, strength and inspiration to those battling cancer,” she said.
Dr Sailuk Pimkoh of Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital added: “The ‘Central Group Women Cancer’ initiative serves as a vital force in enhancing our hospital’s capacity to provide comprehensive healthcare. It enables us to acquire essential diagnostic and treatment equipment for common female cancers such as breast, cervical, ovarian and endometrial — all of which remain major causes of mortality among Thai women.”
This year’s support will allow the hospital to purchase a colposcopy device — an essential tool for detecting cervical abnormalities with precision. Preventive healthcare is always key. Women aged 30 and above should undergo cervical cancer screening using the HPV DNA test every five years and from age 40 onwards, should have annual mammograms. In addition, maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise, adequate rest and avoiding risk factors such as stress, smoking and high-fat diets can significantly reduce the long-term risk of cancer.
This year’s Cancer Care Fair featured a variety of activities encouraging the public to share their support and contribute to the cause including a charity sale featuring items from celebrities, special fundraising merchandise from the “Central Group Women Cancer” initiative, Pink Power Collection T-shirts by Yuedpao, crochet flower keychains by Good Goods, portrait painting by autistic artists from Art Story, a prosthetic breast sewing activity hosted by Sabina, and a message-writing station to share words of encouragement, among others.