A significant advancement in regional collaboration for cancer care was announced today with the launch of Project ACTIVE 2.0 (Advancing Cervical Cancer Treatment & Patient Recovery Across Southeast Asia). This multi-country initiative aims to enhance radiation oncology services and improve outcomes for cervical cancer patients across Southeast Asia. The project is supported by the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), DEG Impulse, the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Bangkok, Elekta, and the Federation of Asian Organizations for Radiation Oncology (FARO).
Project ACTIVE 2.0 will focus on clinical capacity-building and knowledge exchange in Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia—countries where cervical cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women. According to Professor Imjai Chitapanarux, President of FARO, “ACTIVE 2.0 goes beyond healthcare initiative – it is a regional platform for sustainable development and technical collaboration. We are directly addressing a critical public health challenge by elevating treatment standards and expanding access to advanced radiotherapy.”
This initiative comes in response to alarming statistics: In 2022, Southeast Asia recorded 69,833 new cervical cancer cases with over 38,000 deaths. Despite progress in screening and HPV vaccination, countries like Thailand continue to face a significant disease burden, especially in underserved communities.
Mr. Sebastian-Justus Schmidt, Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany in Chiang Mai, Thailand, commented, “This project underscores Germany’s ongoing dedication to fostering sustainable healthcare partnerships in Thailand and beyond. By bridging international expertise to Southeast Asia, Project ACTIVE 2.0 is laying the groundwork for stronger oncology services that benefit communities across the region.”
Mr. Yohei Watanabe, Vice Director of Project ACTIVE 2.0, explained, “Project ACTIVE 2.0 is designed to reinforce the clinical foundations of radiotherapy in the region. In collaboration with FARO, we aim to equip healthcare professionals with global best practices to ensure every patient receives optimal care.”
International medical experts, including radiation oncologists from Europe, Japan, and India, will provide expertise and guidance to the project countries in partnership with FARO. In Thailand, training and knowledge exchange activities will be developed in close collaboration with local medical institutions.
Project ACTIVE 2.0 is not only a clinical initiative but also a scalable model for cross-border healthcare cooperation, aligning with global health priorities and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. It exemplifies how international collaboration can drive impactful changes in public health systems, fostering more equitable access to essential cancer care.
About ACTIVE 2.0
Project ACTIVE 2.0 is a radiation oncology-driven initiative supported by governments, technology partners, and leading clinical experts. The project will deliver essential radiotherapy treatments and technologies across Southeast Asia. It focuses on three main areas: (1) adaptive external beam radiation, (2) image-guided adaptive brachytherapy (IGABT), and (3) personalized electronic patient follow-ups—all designed to provide hope and enhanced care for those affected by cervical cancer.
About DEG Impulse
DEG Impulse, a 100% subsidiary of Deutsche Investitions- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft (DEG), offers advisory and grant funding solutions for private companies investing in developing and emerging countries. Through these efforts, DEG promotes sustainable economic growth and improved living conditions, contributing to the social and ecological transition in the private sector.
About Elekta
As a global leader in precision radiation therapy, Elekta is committed to ensuring all patients have access to the best possible cancer care. The company works closely with customers to advance sustainable, outcome-driven, and cost-efficient solutions to meet evolving patient needs, ultimately improving lives and providing hope for those dealing with cancer.
About FARO
The Federation of Asian Organizations for Radiation Oncology (FARO) is a non-profit scientific organization that brings together radiation oncology societies across Asia. FARO aims to enhance the development of radiation oncology, improve the basic level of radiotherapy practice, and elevate the quality of cancer care throughout the Asian region.
About ASSIST
ASSIST is a pan-Asian non-profit organization operating across ASEAN and South Asia for over 20 years. Key focus areas of ASSIST include Green Economy, Education and Skills Development, Agriculture, and Health.