Under the theme “TraditionalMedicine: Inheritance & nnovation"this year's forum featured numerousdiscussions around bridging the gapbetween traditional healing methodsand modern medical advancements.

• ADVANCING TRADITIONAL MEDICINE

 During the opening ceremony, World Traditional Medicine Forum Chairman Dr Dong Zhilin shared his insights onthe growing importance of integrating Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) into contemporary healthcare systems.

Dr Dong Zhilin

He emphasised that the holistic approach of TCM, which focuses on prevention rather than just treatment offers a promising solution to tackle the rise of non-communicable diseases.
"We must not only preserve our rich heritage but also adapt it to meettoday's challenges," he remarked.
Dong's speech also highlighted the need for collaboration between TCM practitioners and modern healthcare providers to create a more inclusiveand diverse health system.
He stressed that such integration can bring substantial benefts to both prevention and treatment, particularly in combating chronic diseases like nypertension,diabetes,and heartconditions, which have become global health concerns. 

Another distinguished speaker China Medical Materials Association Executive Vice President and Shan-dong Hongjitang Pharmaceutical Group Co.,Ltd., Chairman Dr Gao Yuankun,also addressed the forumdiscussing the growing recognition of TCM's preventive potential.
He noted:"TCM practices such asacupuncture,herbalmedicine,andtherapeutic massage are not just aboutc uring illnesses but preventing them. Gao explained that the focus of traditional medicine in preventive care aligns perfectly with global trends toward promoting wellness and early intervention.

He underscored how TCM is evolving beyond being a complementary treatment to becoming a key player in global health strategies, particularly in areas like pain management, stressr eduction,and enhancing overall well-being.This is a testament to its growinginfluence in the healthcare landscape. The forum was a truly global event,with delegates from china, Holland,Spain, New York,and many other countries all contributing to the rich tapestry of discussions and knowledge sharing.
It was a resounding success, reinforcing the importance of traditional medicine in contemporary healthcare .It was not only seen as a complement to modern practices but also as a vital component o fthe global health system. Moreover, it also offered a vision of a more integrated approach to health-care -one that embraces the wisdom of traditional practices while utilising modern advancements to improve patient outcomes globally.

BY ADELINE ANTHONY ALPHONSO