Critical cancer surgery for Cambodian infants

Overview

Japan Heart provides free, life-saving medical care to children with cancer in Cambodia. Our work goes beyond treatment - we focus on sustainable healthcare development by training local medical professionals, offering scholarships for future healthcare workers, and implementing nutrition and hygiene education in hospitals.
This report outlines our key activities in Japan Heart Children’s Medical Center from February to May 2025.

Key Updates

Surgical Nurse Training with JONA
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Cambodian operating room staff had to manage surgeries without Japanese support. To enhance their skills, we formed a partnership with the Japan periOperative Nursing Academy (JONA) in December 2024.

• In April 2024, a joint project team was launched.
• In May 2024, JONA members visited our Children’s Medical Center in Cambodia for site observation and meetings.
• Since then, regular online training has continued.
  As a result, Cambodian nurses are now more confident, independent, and skilled in surgical procedures and anatomy. We continue to support them in understanding the role of nursing and fostering long-term motivation.

Scholarship Program "Yume no Kakehashi (The Bridge of Dreams)"

Based on the principle of “rebuilding their country with their own hands,” this scholarship supports rural high school students who wish to become doctors or nurses.

• Started in 2011, the program selects students through home visits, academic testing, and interviews.
• Funded through donations and foster sponsors, who receive quarterly updates from the students.
• After university graduation and obtaining medical licenses, scholars train at Japan Heart for a period equal to half of their academic years.
  The project nurtures skilled and compassionate medical professionals for the future of Cambodia.

Nutrition Program and Patient Engagement Activities
A full-time registered dietitian joined our hospital in January 2025.

• We are working closely with local kitchen staff to improve hygiene standards and revise meal plans.
• To provide joy to long-term pediatric patients, we organized a “make-your-own pizza” event, allowing children to decorate and enjoy their own meals.
  This program supports both physical health and emotional well-being through safe, nutritious food and positive experiences.

Upcoming Goals

• Locally Led Healthcare by Cambodians, for Cambodians
  Doctors who have been involved since the early stages of our activities can now perform basic surgeries independently. Their growth is inspiring others, leading to increased cooperation across the entire hospital.
  We remain committed to helping Cambodian healthcare workers gain the skills and confidence needed to deliver quality medical care without relying on external support.
• Opening of the Japan Heart Asia Pediatric Medical Center

In October 2025, Japan Heart will open its second self-operated hospital: a 200-bed pediatric medical center near Phnom Penh. Located in Takhmao City close to Cambodia’s upcoming international airport, this new facility will significantly expand our capacity and accessibility.

With a mission to eliminate the survival gap in pediatric cancer care between developing and developed countries, the hospital will serve as a regional hub for advanced and equitable treatment, especially for children facing life-threatening illnesses.

Links:

• https://www.japanheart.org/en/en-activities/en-cambodia/
• https://www.japanheart.org/en/en-topics/en-office/japan-heart-builds-new-hospital-in-cambodia.html