SDG 3 Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages

SDG 3 in numbers

The graph shows a steady rise in health profession graduates at Thammasat University, from 952 in 2018–2019 to 1,343 in 2022–2023, while total graduates fluctuated around 9,000. This trend reflects a growing focus on health professions, with an increasing share of graduates in this field.

The graph shows Viva City Center usage at Thammasat University from 2018 to 2023, peaking in 2020–2021 with 3,207 users (2,488 females, 719 males) and decreasing to 2,340 users in 2022–2023. Female users consistently outnumbered males, reflecting fluctuating engagement with the center over the years.

The graph shows Thammasat University’s increasing scholarly output on SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), rising from 121 publications in 2015 to a peak of 326 in 2022, with a slight drop to 304 in 2023. This trend highlights a growing emphasis on health-related research, especially in recent years.

Research in SDG 3

Health and Wellness in Action: Key Research Clusters of Thammasat University Scholars on SDG Good Health and Wellbeing

Thammasat University scholars make significant contributions to SDG 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing) through research that spans public health, chronic diseases, infectious diseases, mental health, and healthcare technologies.

A key area of focus is chronic diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Scholars investigate treatment efficacy, such as GLP-1 receptor agonists for diabetes, and develop predictive tools for cancer survival. Research on liver and kidney diseases and hypertension reflects a strong commitment to managing chronic illnesses that impose a substantial healthcare burden in Thailand.

Infectious disease management is also a major theme, particularly in addressing diseases prevalent in Southeast Asia, such as dengue fever, malaria, and cholangiocarcinoma, which is often linked to liver fluke infections. COVID-19 research has been especially impactful, encompassing vaccine efficacy studies and post-COVID syndrome management, and informing public health policies on vaccination and long-term care strategies.

Mental health research emphasizes issues like depression and anxiety in vulnerable groups, including adolescents and older adults. This focus on mental health as essential to overall wellbeing aligns with a holistic approach to health, which is central to SDG 3.

Thammasat University is also advancing healthcare technologies, developing AI-driven diagnostic tools and mobile health applications to boost health literacy and support patient self-management. These digital health innovations reflect a forward-thinking approach, aimed at improving healthcare accessibility and bridging gaps in patient care.

Together, these research areas underscore Thammasat University’s multifaceted dedication to SDG 3. By emphasizing disease prevention, accessible healthcare, mental health, and innovative solutions, Thammasat scholars are helping to build a more resilient and healthier society, advancing health outcomes across various demographics in Thailand. This integrated approach reflects a comprehensive commitment to addressing public health challenges and enhancing wellbeing.

Outreach and Academic Services in SDG 3

Thammasat University actively supports community health through over 80 projects aligned with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being. These initiatives involve cross-faculty collaboration to improve public health and quality of life, combining medical and social sciences for sustainable outcomes.

1. Health Education and Skill Development

The Institute for Continuing Education and the Faculty of Nursing provide programs on health literacy, including safe medication use and cancer care nursing, empowering the public to prevent and manage health issues effectively.

2. Care for Vulnerable Groups and the Elderly

The Chulabhorn International College of Medicine (CICM) focuses on elderly care, offering integrated health services in communities like Tha Khong Municipality. The Faculty of Dentistry trains dental professionals to provide specialized care for the elderly and special needs patients, ensuring accessible dental services.

3. Community Health Promotion

The Faculty of Medicine organizes health check-ups and training for public health volunteers and leaders. Programs like asthma awareness and basic life support highlight Thammasat’s commitment to enhancing community health skills.

4. Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Thammasat incorporates social sciences, with the Faculty of Sociology and Anthropology conducting workshops on labor, family, and gender issues post-COVID-19. This approach underscores the role of socio-cultural factors in health.

5. Diverse Target Groups

These projects benefit a wide range of groups, including the elderly, children, vulnerable patients, and public health workers. By engaging multiple faculties, Thammasat maximizes impact, promoting equitable health outcomes.

Thammasat University exemplifies interdisciplinary collaboration, using its knowledge base to advance public health and well-being through SDG 3-focused community service projects.

Featured Stories

The first AI in Med Conference in Thailand

The Faculty of Medicine, Thammasat University, partnered with the University of Alabama at Birmingham to host Thailand’s first AI in Med Conference 2023. Featuring world-renowned and Thai experts, the event explored cutting-edge innovations in Medical AI and Digital Health. It showcased ideas, experiences, and solutions aimed at advancing technology and medicine. The conference underscored a commitment to revolutionizing healthcare in Thailand through impactful AI applications and pioneering developments in the field.

Mobile Health Services Units

From January to December 2023, Thammasat University’s mobile medical units, led by its healthcare faculties, provided annual check-ups and influenza vaccinations to factories, schools, universities, and communities in nearby provinces. These outreach services improved public health access and promoted interdisciplinary collaboration among health-related faculties. By offering essential medical care, the initiative also enhanced academic programs, research, and community health, benefiting students, faculty, and local populations.

Community Health Education Program

Thammasat University’s Community Health Program (Lampang Campus) organized a health event for the elderly in Ban Dong Dam, Lamphun, focusing on nutrition and exercise. The Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Pharmacy, and Physical Therapy also conducted health management programs for vulnerable groups.

In Pathum Thani, the Department of Physical Therapy and Medical Technology led fitness assessments and kidney disease risk analysis for the elderly. The Health Service Center, in collaboration with Lad Sawai Municipality Health Insurance Fund, hosted an Elderly Health Check-Up Program, offering consultations for those aged 60+.

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