A seminar titled “Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in Cancer Care and Medical Practice” was held in Dhaka on Sunday at the National Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (NINMAS) under the Bangladesh Medical University.
Experts from Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, along with professors, physicians, scientists, resident doctors, and healthcare professionals from NINMAS, participated in the event. Discussions centered on the role of Traditional Chinese Medicine in cancer treatment and its potential integration with modern medical science.
According to TCM philosophy, cancer arises from an imbalance within the body, particularly involving Qi, blood, yin–yang harmony, and organ functionality. Chronic stagnation of Qi, blood clotting, dampness, phlegm accumulation, and weakened immunity are considered the main causes of tumor formation, while mental stress, dietary habits, and environmental factors also play a role.
During the seminar, professors demonstrated how TCM focuses on the overall condition of the patient rather than isolated symptoms.
Licensed Chinese medicine practitioner Dr. Yi Li noted,
“In China, Western medicine and traditional Chinese medicine are now practiced side by side. We hope people in Bangladesh will learn about TCM and experience its benefits. Greater communication among healthcare providers, sharing of clinical experiences, and educational training programs could initiate this collaboration.”
Prof. Dr. Hailei Chao, Dean of the School of Public Health at Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, emphasized,
“Traditional Chinese Medicine is highly effective, affordable, and efficient. In the 1950s and 1960s, when China faced a shortage of pharmaceutical drugs, herbal medicine and acupuncture played a vital role in public health. We want this approach to benefit the people of Bangladesh as well.”
Experts highlighted that while TCM can be applied independently, combining it with modern medicine yields better treatment outcomes. Bangladeshi physicians at the event shared insights into their diagnostic and treatment methods, while Chinese doctors demonstrated acupuncture techniques on several local participants.
They suggested that launching TCM training programs in Bangladesh would enable medical students to gain hands-on experience directly from universities and hospitals in China.
Specialists from both nations agreed that Traditional Chinese Medicine is not merely an alternative therapy but also a powerful preventive healthcare system. They believe that expanding TCM education and collaboration in Bangladesh could enrich patient care and further strengthen the bonds of friendship between Bangladesh and China.
Source: Aishi–Jennifer–Faisal, China Media Group.