Varian today announced that it has entered into a three-year agreement with Yonsei Cancer Center, Yonsei University Health System to collaborate on research and development projects in the field of radiation therapy and oncology.

Cancer is the leading cause of death in the Republic of Korea. In 2018, it was estimated that more than 277,000 people were diagnosed with the disease, and this is projected to almost double to more than 425,000 cases by 2040.1

Prof. Yong Bae Kim, Chairman of Radiation Oncology Department, Yonsei Cancer Center, Yonsei University Health System said: "Korea has an aging population and people are living longer, so we are seeing a year-on-year increase in cancer cases. We must continue to push the boundaries in research and development, forge new partnerships, and harness new technologies to ensure that we are at the forefront of innovative treatment solutions for the people of Korea and beyond."

Yonsei Cancer Center is Korea's first cancer hospital established in 1969, and it is one of the leading cancer centers in the world.

"The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding with Varian is a step forward in the fight against cancer. It is important that academia partners with industry as we each contribute different strengths. We are particularly interested in working with Varian on artificial intelligence solutions which have shown to improve early detection of cancer by more accurately identifying at-risk patients, improving treatment planning, and predicting patient outcomes," concluded Professor Kim.

Kevin Lo, managing director, Southeast Asia, Korea, Hong Kong, S.A.R., China & Macau, S.A.R., China Region, Varian said: "We are extremely proud to partner with Yonsei Cancer Center, Yonsei University Health System which is at the forefront of cancer research. Cancer is one of the most clinically difficult diseases to manage and, through partnerships such as this one, we move one step closer to being able to take away the feeling of dread on being diagnosed and move towards living in a world without fear of cancer."

About Varian

At Varian, we envision a world without fear of cancer. For more than 70 years, we have developed, built and delivered innovative cancer care technologies and solutions for our clinical partners around the globe to help them treat millions of patients each year. With an Intelligent Cancer Care approach, we are harnessing advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning and data analytics to enhance cancer treatment and expand access to care. Our 10,000 employees across 70 locations keep the patient and our clinical partners at the center of our thinking as we power new victories in cancer care. Because, for cancer patients everywhere, their fight is our fight.