HANGZHOU, China, Nov. 25, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- City of Hope, one of the leading comprehensive cancer centers and independent biomedical research institutions in the United States, has established a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Second Affiliate Hospital of Zhejiang University (SAHZU) to bring its expertise in treating cancer to the Zhejiang region. The planned partnership will allow City of Hope experts to have educational exchanges with SAHZU physicians and scientists, and provide additional consultation on the treatment plans of SAHZU's cancer patients.
The signing of the MOU between City of Hope and SAHZU is a part of City of Hope's International Medicine Program, an initiative designed to expand access to its leading-edge research and high-quality care to patients worldwide. The program is also designed to support international patients who choose to come to City of Hope in the United States for care.
The announcement of the MOU was made during a visit to the hospital by City of Hope's Chair of Surgery, Dr. Yuman Fong, one of the world's leading liver cancer surgeons.
"As envisioned in the MOU, this partnership with SAHZU will help City of Hope better understand the unique cultural concerns and needs of patients from China," stated Fong. "City of Hope is one of the leaders in cancer research and holistic patient care, and SAHZU has some of the leading cancer surgeons in China. As City of Hope continues to grow the International Medicine Program, our doctors will be able to both share our expertise and apply what we learn, our institution will be able to expand that knowledge internationally to patients who need our care."
During his visit to China, Dr. Fong is speaking with some of the world's top liver cancer surgeons at several medical conferences to share information on liver cancer treatment opportunities and challenges. He will also visit major Chinese research and treatment institutions to build relationships with physicians and researchers and to share medical research and expertise.
According to data from the Chinese ministry of health, cancer is the leading cause of death in the country. City of Hope is a leader in cancer research, new therapies, and advanced surgical techniques, including treatment for some of the most prevalent types of cancer in China, such as liver, lung, cervical and stomach, esophageal and colorectal cancer.
Regular health checks and screenings to detect cancer at an early stage can dramatically improve a person's chances for successful treatment. However, once a person has been diagnosed with cancer, access to the best physicians, latest technology and medical advances and a supportive environment can improve the chance of successful cancer treatment.
"Through our international medicine program and partnership with world-class cancer hospitals like the one we are planning with SAHZU, we intend to help reduce the number of deaths from cancer in China by providing access to critical resources, from screenings to advanced treatment and patient care," said Fong. "The shared knowledge, expanded research and training will allow us to serve more patients who need the expertise that only City of Hope can offer, and help save lives. That's our most important objective."
City of Hope's International Medicine Program can provide customized services and programs for people in China who wish to receive world-renowned medical care at City of Hope. As part of the program, the hospital provides personalized services including a Chinese-speaking navigator who can help coordinate family and individual counseling, travel arrangements and other support so patients and their families can focus on healing and recovery.
For more information about City of Hope, including information about how to become a patient or receive a second opinion, and treatment programs and services offered for patients and family members, please visit our website.
About City Of Hope City of Hope is an independent research and treatment center for cancer, diabetes, and other life-threatening diseases. Designated as a comprehensive cancer center, the highest recognition bestowed by the National Cancer Institute, City of Hope is also a founding member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, with research and treatment protocols that advance care throughout the nation. City of Hope's main hospital is located in Duarte, Calif., just northeast of Los Angeles, with clinics throughout Southern California. It is ranked as one of "America's Best Hospitals" in cancer by U.S.News & World Report. Founded in 1913, City of Hope is a pioneer in the fields of cancer surgery, robotic surgery, bone marrow transplantation and gene therapy.
