#Hong Kong #Gastroenterology #CU Medicine

CU Medicine Ranks World No. 2 in Gastroenterology & Hepatology

The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)'s Faculty of Medicine, known as CU Medicine, has once again captured the spotlight, achieving a remarkable second position globally in Gastroenterology and Hepatology, as reported by U.S. News & World Report. This accolade marks the fourth consecutive year that CU Medicine has held a top-three position in this prestigious ranking, reflecting its unwavering commitment to excellence in medical education and clinical care.

CU Medicine has also triumphed in Asia, reigning as the number one institution in Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and also Endocrinology and Metabolism for five successive years. Additionally, it secured first place in Clinical Medicine for the second year in a row, further solidifying its status as a leading medical faculty in the region.

Among its numerous accolades, the Faculty boasts five disciplines within Asia's top three, including Endocrinology & Metabolism and Surgery, while seven disciplines are ranked as the best in Hong Kong. This recognition emphasizes CU Medicine's broad spectrum of excellence across research, clinical care, and education.

Pioneering Research in Gastroenterology & Hepatology

CU Medicine's sustained global prominence in the field of Gastroenterology and Hepatology stems from its innovative research and clinical advancements that are shaping international practices. The Faculty established Asia's first Microbiota Transplantation and Research Centre, which leads in fecal microbiota transplantation, early-life microbiome studies, and the development of non-invasive diagnostic methods. Notable findings from CU Medicine researchers include the identification of novel microbiome biomarkers linked to autism spectrum disorders, as well as evidence that modulating gut microbiota may help alleviate anxiety symptoms.

In a groundbreaking discovery, faculty researchers identified that Streptococcus anginosus can lead to gastric cancer, opening new avenues for clinical intervention. These research efforts position CU Medicine at the forefront of understanding gastrointestinal diseases and enhancing treatment strategies.

CU Medicine’s commitment to innovation is evident in its pioneering work on non-invasive and endoscopic techniques, which aim to improve patient care by minimizing surgical trauma and expediting recovery processes. The Faculty has become a global leader with the introduction of endoluminal robotics technology aimed at treating gastrointestinal cancers. Furthermore, it hosts the world's first testing site for an AI-powered upper gastrointestinal endoscopy system that significantly boosts early cancer detection precision using robotic assistance.

International collaborations have also been a hallmark of CU Medicine's achievements. The Faculty played a significant role in leading The Lancet Commission on liver cancer, marking a historic first for the journal. Five scholars from CU Medicine, including a lead author, were part of a 51-member commission composed of experts from around the world, underscoring its influential presence in global liver disease research.

Bringing advanced research from the laboratory to patient care, CU Medicine has positioned itself as a leader in early, non-invasive diagnostics for colorectal cancer, defining stool microRNA and bacterial biomarkers for early detection. Coupled with these diagnostic innovations, a recent study unveiled a unique function of the macrophage subtype TREM2+ LAM, which feeds cancer cells during the process of clearing apoptotic cells. This discovery represents a promising new target for liver cancer immunotherapy.

Professor Philip Chiu, the Dean of Medicine at CUHK, remarked, “Maintaining a top-three global position for four years in a row is a testament to the consistent and extensive excellence of CU Medicine. Progress in medicine requires boldness in trailblazing initiatives, and our teams have consistently demonstrated the capability of Hong Kong scholars to lead in scientific and clinical advancements. We will continue to push boundaries, accelerate the translation of leading research into practice, and nurture the next generation of compassionate, globally-aware medical leaders.”

About CU Medicine

Established in 1981, CU Medicine is globally recognized for its teaching, research, and clinical services. It consistently ranks within the top 1% of over 4,000 medical schools worldwide. In the Best Global Universities Subject Rankings 2026-27 by U.S. News and World Report, its programs in Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, and Clinical Medicine are ranked first in Asia. The Faculty encompasses 14 clinical departments and five schools, offering a premier teaching and research environment that promotes interdisciplinary and international collaboration. With over 6,000 medical graduates contributing to healthcare systems worldwide, CU Medicine remains dedicated to innovation, translating cutting-edge research into practical, impactful clinical applications. This legacy includes securing 3,000 patents and establishing more than 20 start-ups, reshaping medical practice and elevating standards of care across the spectrum of health and disease.

For further information, please visit CU Medicine's website.