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| Many scientific projects with high applicability having been honoured in major awards |
“Revival” with the help of advanced medical techniques
Nearly a year ago, thanks to the team of doctors at the Stroke Center of Hue Central Hospital, Ms. Le Thi H. (from Vinh Ha commune, Phu Vang district) just barely escaped death after suffering a severe cerebral artery stenosis. On the way to the hospital, Ms. H. could only communicate with her family through gestures of her right arm. After a race against time, measured in minutes, during surgery by the medical team at the center, however, she has now almost fully recovered.
The case of Ms. H. is one of hundreds of people I know who have recently escaped death thanks to the efforts of Hue Central Hospital. This illness, known as cerebral artery blockage in the medical field, is becoming increasingly common, claiming the lives of not only the elderly but also young people and children. Nevertheless, this condition is no longer a widespread concern thanks to the medical team at Hue Central Hospital and their research on “Applying advanced techniques in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke caused by large vessel intracranial occlusion on the background of chronic stenosis,” initiated years ago.
In a recent conversation, Dr. Le Vu Huynh from the Stroke Center at Hue Central Hospital shared that large vessel occlusion was a special type, accounting for 24-38% of ischemic strokes, and was a major cause of death or severe disability. This alarming reality motivated a team of leading doctors and scientists at Hue Central Hospital to embark on a challenging research journey. Their persistence paid off, with nearly 90% of cases of acute large vessel occlusion on the background of chronic stenosis experiencing successful vascular recanalization, and nearly 80% of patients undergoing treatment managed to return to normal life. The findings of this research have been presented at numerous scientific conferences both domestically and internationally, and scientists have acknowledged that the value of this work cannot be measured in monetary terms, but its greatest contribution is saving lives.
Hue Central Hospital’s success extends beyond the aforementioned research. Its recent in-depth and groundbreaking studies in the treatment of complex and rare diseases, such as kidney transplants, heart transplants, and liver transplants, have established the hospital’s brand, placing it on the global medical map of advanced treatment for difficult diseases. Hence, Hue Central Hospital has become a trusted institution, affirming its position in public healthcare and attracting an increasing number of patients, both domestic and international, for the treatment of a wide range of medical conditions.
In tandem with Hue Central Hospital, the faculty members of the University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, have recently undertaken numerous medical research projects that have affirmed its reputation as a leading center for advanced medical studies in Central Vietnam and across the country. Annually, the University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University produces dozens of research topics and projects at ministerial and provincial levels. Among these, many have been awarded prestigious honors, including the Ho Chi Minh Award, Vietnam Talent Award, Ancient Capital Science and Technology Award, etc.
Advancing with the Centrally Governed City
Through discussions with Mr. Ho Dac Thai Hoang, Chairman of the Provincial Union of Science and Technology Associations, I have come to appreciate some profound truths: Thua Thien Hue is inherently rich in natural potential, such as its land and resources. Additionally, it holds a valuable asset in its abundant human resources, with a strong intellectual and knowledge base that rivals the major hubs at either end of the country. This intellectual capital, embodied most clearly in the team of scientists, forms a formidable force that has been actively contributing to the province’s socio-economic development through research projects, scientific studies, and the practical application of science and technology.
Statistics from the Department of Science and Technology in recent times shows that nearly 70% of scientific and technological outcomes have been applied and scaled up in practice through transfer to various sectors, fields, and localities. These are telling figures, reflecting how local scientists have bridge the gap for businesses, residents, and local authorities to integrate these findings into daily life, directly supporting effective production and business activities.
Thua Thien Hue has become a centrally governed municipality - a new opportunity for the province that continues to unfold, offering scientists the chance to conduct research and contribute useful products across all local fields. This is further emphasised by the recent major planning efforts by the province and central government for the 2021-2030 period, with a vision to 2050. These plans identify human resources - particularly scientists - as key factors in elevating the centrally governed municipality to a higher level, fulfilling the aspirations of those within and beyond the province.
With its strategic directions and objectives, Thua Thien Hue aims to become a center for advanced medical care and one of the nation’s leading hubs in science and technology, as well as multidisciplinary, high-quality education and training. Based on its existing foundation and fueled by the passion of intellectuals and scientists, Thua Thien Hue has established a nearly complete infrastructure and system for science and technology, including universities, colleges, vocational schools, institutes, research centers under various ministries, sectors, and local authorities, etc.. These resources support research in key fields such as social sciences and humanities, biotechnology, medicine, and pharmacy.
In addition, new institutions will be developed, such as a National-level Biotechnology Center in Central Vietnam, a Science Park, a High-tech Healthcare Zone, and a National High-tech Zone in Hue… At the same time, existing centers and museums in the field of science and technology will continue to be upgraded to enhance research capacity and provide advanced scientific and technological services, creating new breakthroughs for the city - a heritage landscape that is environmentally friendly and resilient in green economy, circular economy, and climate change mitigation efforts, not only at the local level but also for the Central region and the entire country.