Li Ka-shing has donated advanced medical equipment to the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) to help treat liver cancer. This includes Asia’s first Histotripsy 2.0 system, which will start treating patients early next year. The donation is part of a program where the Li Ka-shing Foundation will cover treatment for 10 liver cancer patients using new tissue fragmentation technology. CUHK will also assist another 20 patients through its Faculty of Medicine and the Prince of Wales Hospital Charitable Trust.
At a recent press conference, Li Ka-shing expressed his thoughts on the Hong Kong economy, stating that it faces significant challenges that cannot be resolved just through investment. He emphasized the importance of researching medical technology to lower costs, increase efficiency, and improve service quality. This approach could benefit Hong Kong, China, and Southeast Asia.
Professor Lo Yuk-ming, who will become CUHK’s President in January 2025, shared his team’s efforts to develop low-cost and accurate cancer screening methods. He noted that earlier diagnosis leads to better treatment outcomes and hopes the new technology can initially benefit the people in China and Southeast Asia.
Interview with Professor Lo Yuk-ming on Li Ka-shing’s Donation of Advanced Medical Equipment to CUHK
News Editor: Thank you for joining us, Professor Lo. Following the generous donation from Li Ka-shing to the Chinese University of Hong Kong, can you elaborate on the significance of this new Histotripsy 2.0 system for liver cancer treatment?
Professor Lo: Thank you for having me. The introduction of the Histotripsy 2.0 system is immensely significant as it represents Asia’s first implementation of this advanced technology. This system allows for non-invasive tumor treatment through precision tissue fragmentation, which can ultimately lead to improved outcomes for our patients. We anticipate starting treatments early next year, and the impact on liver cancer treatment in Hong Kong and the broader region will be monumental.
News Editor: Li Ka-shing mentioned that this donation is part of a program covering treatments for 10 liver cancer patients. How does CUHK plan to implement this initiative alongside assisting an additional 20 patients?
Professor Lo: The program will be executed in collaboration with our Faculty of Medicine and the Prince of Wales Hospital Charitable Trust. We are carefully coordinating to ensure that these patients receive not just access to the Histotripsy technology, but also comprehensive support throughout their treatment journeys. This is a critical step in providing cutting-edge care, particularly for those who may face financial barriers in accessing advanced treatments.
News Editor: At the press conference, Li Ka-shing highlighted the broader challenges facing the Hong Kong economy and the need for innovative medical technologies. How does CUHK align with this vision in terms of research and development?
Professor Lo: Our commitment to researching and developing low-cost, accurate cancer screening methods fits seamlessly within Mr. Li’s vision. We believe that early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes, and our team is focused on leveraging new technologies to make these procedures more affordable and efficient. By doing so, we aim to positively impact not only Hong Kong but also larger regions in China and Southeast Asia.
News Editor: You mentioned that early diagnosis leads to better treatment outcomes. How does the integration of the Histotripsy technology contribute to this goal?
Professor Lo: The Histotripsy 2.0 system offers a dual benefit. Firstly, it facilitates earlier intervention by allowing us to treat tumors that may not be manageable through traditional methods. Secondly, the ongoing updates and technological enhancements mean that our treatment protocols will continuously evolve, maximizing our ability to effectively combat different types of cancer as we learn more about their behavior.
News Editor: Li Ka-shing referred to the technology as a “gift” bringing hope and health. Can you elaborate on how CUHK plans to ensure that this hope translates into tangible benefits for patients?
Professor Lo: Our approach hinges on patient-centered care. We’ll closely monitor the treatment processes and patient outcomes, ensuring that we continuously assess the effectiveness of the Histotripsy technology. Additionally, we are committed to sharing our results and findings with the medical community, which will foster broader adoption of these innovative techniques, ultimately benefiting more patients across various demographics.
News Editor: What message would you like to send to the public regarding the future of cancer treatment in light of these new advancements?
Professor Lo: I want the public to know that with advancements like the Histotripsy 2.0 system, we are taking significant steps forward in the fight against cancer. We are dedicated to enhancing not only treatment accessibility but also quality and efficacy. The future looks promising, and through collaboration and innovation, we hope to vastly improve the outcomes for patients battling cancer in our communities.
Li Ka-shing described the Histotripsy technology as a “gift” that brings hope and health. He shared that within 90 days of the first system’s arrival in Hong Kong, 30 liver cancer patients had successful treatments. This affordable and efficient treatment option aims to ease the financial strain on patients and the public healthcare system, particularly as the population ages.
CUHK highlighted that the Histotripsy 2.0 system is equipped with cutting-edge technology, allowing for continuous updates and improved efficiency in tumor treatment. This advancement lays a strong foundation for using tissue fragmentation technology for various cancers.
