27 November 2025, Khon Kaen – The Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University (KKU), and Srinagarind Hospital held a press conference and ceremonial handover for a donation of blood pressure monitors. The event was presided over by Professor Somsak Tiamkao, M.D., Director of Srinagarind Hospital, and was well-attended by faculty members, medical personnel, and media representatives at the Kawee Thangsubut Hall, 5th Floor, Integrated Learning Building, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University.
The Faculty of Medicine and Srinagarind Hospital are actively promoting the project, “Doctors Care: Regular Blood Pressure Monitoring Reduces the Risk of Stroke and Heart Failure.” This initiative aims to raise public awareness regarding the importance of consistently monitoring blood pressure. Hypertension is often referred to as a “silent killer” because it frequently shows no clear symptoms but remains a major cause of stroke and heart disease, tragically claiming the lives of many Thais annually.
During the ceremony, Mr. Viroj Srisodsai and Ms. Pannee, alongside authorised representatives of Yuwell from Mahajak International Co., Ltd., officially handed over 2,000 blood pressure monitors to Srinagarind Hospital. This donation marks the second consecutive act of support, bringing the total number of donated monitors to over 5,550 units. This substantial contribution enables the hospital to comprehensively distribute the essential equipment to underprivileged patients, homebound and bedridden patients, and high-risk populations across the region.
Professor Somsak Tiamkao, M.D., Director of Srinagarind Hospital, highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating:
“High blood pressure is a silent threat that leads to severe illnesses such as coronary artery disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Currently, patient numbers are rising significantly due to stress, consumption of highly seasoned foods, and lack of exercise. The prevalence of severe paralysis (stroke) has worsened drastically. Previously, one Thai suffered a stroke every 10 minutes, but now, it occurs every 3 minutes. Nationwide, there are 175,000 new stroke patients annually. In Khon Kaen province alone, approximately 5,000 people suffer from paralysis. It is therefore vital that every household owns a blood pressure monitor for self-monitoring, ensuring they seek immediate medical attention if their readings exceed 140/90 mmHg. We are extremely pleased that the private sector has collaborated to support this donation, which will ensure that underprivileged patients and high-risk groups receive these devices universally.”
The project also showcased “Voices from the Patients” who had received monitors for home use. They reported that the devices empowered them to proactively monitor their health, alleviating anxiety and sustainably improving their quality of life. The “Doctors Care” project is a critical component in driving the policy agenda for the prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) at both provincial and national levels. It focuses on ensuring that all citizens know their blood pressure values and have access to essential equipment for health management, thereby building healthier communities and reducing long-term public health burdens.
