An unprecedented seminar to strengthen the fight against cardiometabolic diseases in Cambodia

On July 5, Phnom Penh hosted a major seminar entitled "Advancing Cardiometabolic Care: Integrating Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease Management in Cambodia." Organized by PPM Laboratories in partnership with Sanofi, the event brought together more than 150 specialists, both in person and online, to discuss a crucial public health issue: the management of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), which account for 60 to 68% of deaths in the country, including 23% premature deaths.

Speakers included Professor Dr. Sok Chour, Advisor to the Ministry of Health and President of the Cambodian Cardiovascular Association; Assistant Professor Dr. Touch Khun, Director of the Cambodian-Korean Diabetes Center; and Dr. Liv Chhinh, a prominent cardiologist. Professor Sok Chour emphasized the need for a multidisciplinary approach. According to him, "in this era of technological advances, it is imperative that specialists collaborate to provide the best care to patients." He also reiterated that the fight against NCDs remains a priority for the Royal Government.

To illustrate the importance of cooperation, Dr. Liv Chhinh explained that collaboration between specialists effectively prevents complications and premature death. His goal: "to protect patients from complications, disability, and other associated diseases."

Assistant Professor Dr. Touch Khun, for his part, dispelled a persistent myth by clarifying that insulin is not reserved for the advanced stages of diabetes: "It is an effective and affordable medication, to be used as needed to control blood sugar."

Dr. Vijeta Tiwari, Head of Asia at Sanofi, emphasized the group's commitment to providing quality medicines at affordable prices. "We want to serve the most vulnerable populations, not just the wealthiest," she assured.

Representing CEO Dr. Hay Ly Eang, Tech Symo, PPM's Cambodia Sales Director, expressed his satisfaction with the strength of the partnership with Sanofi, noting that this collaboration now makes it possible to offer essential treatments at much more affordable prices than just a few years ago, without compromising on quality.