Thammasat University and International Experts Adopt Consensus on Managing Premalignant Stomach Conditions in Southeast Asia

Key summary

On October 22, 2026, the Center for Excellence in Gastrointestinal Systems at Thammasat University, alongside the ASEAN Stomach and Microbiota Study Group (ASMG) and international experts, formally adopted a multinational expert consensus titled 'Gastric Premalignant Conditions in Southeast Asia: Prevention, Diagnosis, Surveillance, and Management.' The agreement aims to develop evidence-based guidelines tailored to the epidemiological context of Thailand and Southeast Asia. Key figures include Prof. Dr. Rattakorn Wilaichan, Head of the Center and ASMG Secretary-General; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Warocha Mahachai from Thammasat University; Professor Jaw-Town Lin from National Taiwan University; and Professor Kentaro Sugano from Jichi Medical University in Japan. The consensus expands beyond Helicobacter pylori eradication to include risk assessment for conditions such as gastric atrophy and intestinal metaplasia, family history, smoking, and dietary habits. It addresses regional disparities in disease prevalence, resources, and access to services like endoscopy and pathology. The group plans to publish the findings in an international journal and promote research collaboration to improve patient care and cancer prevention in the region.