Khon Kaen, Thailand – On 6–7 December 2025, the Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University (KKU), dispatched its academic staff, administrative personnel, and students to participate in activities and provide academic services to the public at the International Silk Festival, Puk Siao Tradition, and Khon Kaen Red Cross Fair 2025. The event was held at the grounds in front of Khon Kaen Provincial Hall.
The Faculty’s participation in this annual provincial fair aimed to promote its academic achievements, research outcomes, and innovations, including products developed by the Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences. Furthermore, it provided essential health services to the general public to foster health literacy and awareness regarding self-care within the community.
The Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences presented several featured activities and services, including:
- Anti-Smoking Campaign using Urine Cotinine Test Kits: Organised by the Medical Technology Programme, the campaign was led by Dr. Sutthiwan Janthamala, along with medical technology students.
- Physical Fitness and Body Composition Measurement: Organised by the Physical Therapy Programme, this service was conducted by Dr. Apatsanan Wiyanad, Associate Professor Uraiwan Chatchawan, Ph.D., master’s degree students, and second and third-year Physical Therapy students.
Dr. Sutthiwan Janthamala revealed that the academic service project was established to educate the public about the severe health impacts of smoking and passive (secondhand) smoke exposure. The urine cotinine test serves as a tangible academic tool to demonstrate these effects concretely. The project aims to enhance correct understanding and stimulate awareness of the importance of reducing, moderating, or quitting smoking completely.
“Additionally, this event allows us to disseminate the academic role, research capabilities, and health service potential of the Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, in applying knowledge to serve society in a concrete manner,” Dr. Sutthiwan stated. “The project helps promote a smoke-free society, supports the nation’s tobacco control policy, and reflects the role of higher education institutions in the continuous and sustainable development of public health.”
Dr. Apatsanan Wiyanad commented that the Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, KKU, provided services for measuring body composition and hand grip strength. This allowed the public to learn about their body fat percentage, muscle mass, and overall muscle strength levels. The intention behind providing this data is to help individuals design appropriate exercise programmes and adjust their lifestyles tailored to their unique physical requirements.
“This information ultimately contributes positively and sustainably to the health promotion of society and the nation,” Dr. Apatsanan explained. She further noted that throughout the event, the activity received overwhelming interest from members of the public who came to check their health status and receive advice on correct exercise techniques and self-care.
The activities were exceptionally well-received by the event attendees and successfully demonstrated the integration of academic knowledge for the tangible benefit of the community.
