Critical cancer surgery for Cambodian infants

Overview 

Between February and May 2026, Japan Heart's Cambodia program continued to build on the momentum of the Japan Heart Asia Children's Medical Center's (JHACMC) opening, expanding both surgical reach and the depth of care provided to children and families. This period was marked by the launch of new outreach missions to previously unreached hospitals, the growth of nurse-led quality improvement initiatives, and a series of meaningful programs that addressed not only children's medical needs but also their emotional wellbeing.

From a first-ever surgical mission at a rural provincial hospital to the introduction of an oral care project for pediatric cancer patients, these months reflected Japan Heart's commitment to treating the whole child — not just the disease — while steadily building a healthcare system that local teams can sustain and lead independently.

Key Updates & Achievements

Expanding Surgical Reach: First Mission at Kampong Trabek Hospital (February 9, 2026)

In late January, Japan Heart conducted its first-ever outreach mission at Kampong Trabek Hospital in Prey Veng Province, performing 18 surgeries over four days. The mission also served as an opportunity for knowledge transfer, with Japan Heart staff working alongside local teams to align workflows and build the trust needed for a lasting partnership.

Nurse-Led Working Groups Drive Quality Improvement (March 2, 2026)

At JHACMC, nurse-led working groups in five clinical areas continued to strengthen the quality of care from within. The diabetes care team, newly established in November 2025, began providing structured patient education on nutrition and self-management. The surgical site infection (SSI) team achieved a 9% infection rate for breast cancer surgeries — well below the 20% target — and is now working toward 0% while expanding its scope to other surgical categories.

Thyroid Surgery Mission Brings Specialized Care to JHACMC (April 6, 2026)

In March, endocrine surgeon Dr. Naoto Hara visited JHACMC for a focused three-day mission, performing nine thyroid surgeries on patients aged 9 to 64. His emphasis on post-surgical quality of life — not just clinical outcomes — left a strong impression on local staff and patients alike.

Celebrating Nine Years: Dr. Mariko Kako's Farewell (April 27, 2026)

April marked the end of a remarkable chapter as Dr. Mariko Kako, a pediatric oncologist who served with Japan Heart for nearly nine years, concluded her time in Cambodia. Arriving to help establish the pediatric ward and staying through the opening of JHACMC, Dr. Kako leaves behind a generation of Cambodian medical professionals she mentored — many of whom now hold leading roles at the new hospital.

Bringing Joy to the Oncology Ward: Nail Salon and Magic Show (May 11, 2026)

On March 30, JHACMC's pediatric oncology ward hosted its first nail salon and magic show event, supported by a Phnom Penh-based salon. Children undergoing long-term cancer treatment and their caregivers shared a rare moment of joy — choosing nail designs, laughing at magic tricks, and simply enjoying a break from the demands of treatment.

Oral Care Project Builds Healthy Habits in Pediatric Patients (May 26, 2026)

Supported by Ono Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Japan Heart launched an oral care project at JHACMC in January 2026, with its second session held in April. The project provides oral health checks, brushing instruction, and bacterial monitoring for pediatric cancer patients. Early results are promising, with a growing number of children developing consistent daily brushing habits.

 Acknowledgement

None of these achievements would have been possible without the continued generosity of our donors, partners, and supporters worldwide. Your contributions make it possible for Japan Heart to reach children in underserved communities, train the next generation of Cambodian healthcare professionals, and provide care that addresses not only physical illness but the full dignity and wellbeing of every child. We are deeply grateful for your trust and your belief in this mission.