Canada’s expertise in compiling and analysing genomic data complements Vietnam’s large and genetically diverse population, creating significant opportunities for collaboration in precision medicine. This partnership could help Vietnam narrow its technological gap and strengthen its capacity to treat rare diseases, an area of growing global focus.
The Canadian government’s 2025 Precision Health Initiative seeks to integrate genetic data with health records, environmental factors, and lifestyle information. This enables doctors to predict disease risks, select appropriate medications, and personalise treatment plans, positioning AI-driven precision medicine as a long-term strategic pillar for Canada while opening pathways for cooperation with Vietnam.
Anne Nguyen, Chief AI Officer at the Quebec Innovation Council, highlighted that AI is enabling the shift from mass-medicine to personalised healthcare, addressing challenges posed by population ageing and rising healthcare demand. Building community-specific genomic datasets helps identify rare diseases in smaller populations often overlooked in traditional research, with AI accelerating data analysis and the identification of disease causes for more precise treatments.
Brian D. Keane, CEO of DiaGen AI, emphasised that collecting comprehensive datasets is critical. Data limited to a single community risks missing diverse genetic, cultural, and behavioural traits, requiring costly coordination across organisations and communities.
Vietnam’s rapid digital health transformation, including electronic medical records and data-driven healthcare, positions the country as a promising partner for Canada in precision medicine. Professional capacity development is key: Canada brings experience in genomic data analysis, while Vietnam offers a large, diverse population. Collaboration in AI applications, genomic research, and professional training could help Vietnam improve its rare-disease treatment capabilities and accelerate the adoption of precision medicine nationwide.
Source: Vietnam Plus
