About Associate Professor, Ph.D, Mikael Hartman
Associate Professor, Ph.D, Dr. Mikael Hartman is a distinguished figure in the fields of oncology, breast cancer prevention, and surgery, recognized for his transformative contributions to cancer research and patient care across Asia. Currently serving at Vinmec International Healthcare System and holding senior positions at the National University Hospital (NUH) and the National University of Singapore (NUS), Dr. Hartman exemplifies the synergy of research excellence, clinical precision, and humanitarian advocacy in the fight against breast cancer.
Professional Background and Leadership Roles
Dr. Mikael Hartman’s professional journey reflects a legacy of medical innovation and academic distinction. A graduate of the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden, he earned his certification in general surgery in 2005 and specialized in trauma surgery. His pursuit of scientific excellence led to a Ph.D. in Epidemiology (2007), where his research delved into breast cancer prognosis and genetic determinants of cancer outcomes.
Today, Dr. Hartman serves as:
- Deputy Head of the Breast Unit, Department of Surgery, National University Hospital, Singapore
- Head of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, National University Hospital, Singapore
- Head of the Breast Cancer Prevention Program, Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, NUS
- Deputy Dean (Research), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, NUS
- Deputy Director, Office of Research, National University Health System
- Vice Chairman of the Cancer Council and Director of the Breast Cancer Program at Vinmec Health System, Vietnam
Through these multiple leadership positions, Dr. Hartman bridges academic research, public health policy, and clinical innovation to shape the future of cancer care in Asia and beyond.
Areas of Specialization
Dr. Hartman’s specialties include:
- Oncology – Radiotherapy
- Breast Cancer Prevention and Surgery
- Cancer Epidemiology and Public Health
- Genetic and Molecular Research on Cancer Prognosis
His clinical and research interests revolve around early detection, risk prediction, and evidence-based intervention strategies for breast cancer prevention. His work integrates large-scale epidemiological studies with real-world clinical data to improve outcomes and reduce disease burden.
Vision and Impact in Cancer Prevention
For more than two decades, Dr. Hartman has dedicated his work to empowering women through knowledge, prevention, and access to quality care. He promotes a proactive healthcare model, emphasizing lifestyle modification, regular breast screening, and personalized prevention strategies. His educational outreach and advocacy are widely recognized, particularly his efforts to encourage routine mammograms and early intervention for high-risk groups.
In 2014, Dr. Hartman undertook an extraordinary journey from Singapore to Sweden by motorbike to raise global awareness for breast cancer research. This effort led to the founding of the Asian Breast Cancer Research Foundation, a non-profit organization that fosters collaboration and research across the continent. His work in public engagement, including his TEDx Talks, demonstrates his commitment to making scientific knowledge accessible and actionable for all.
Research Excellence and Contributions to Global Science
Dr. Hartman’s research has profoundly influenced breast cancer genetics, prognosis modeling, and prevention policy. He leads a multidisciplinary research team involved in several major initiatives, including:
- Singapore Breast Cancer Research Group
- Singapore-Malaysia Breast Cancer Working Group
- Breast Cancer Prevention Program, Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health
His publications, appearing in top international journals such as Nature Genetics, JAMA, and The Lancet Oncology, have advanced the understanding of genetic predisposition, molecular subtypes, and familial risk in breast cancer. Below are selected highlights of his influential publications:
- Familial Risk and Heritability of Cancer Among Twins in Nordic Countries (JAMA, 2016)
- Genomic Landscapes of Breast Fibroepithelial Tumors (Nature Genetics, 2015)
- Genome-Wide Association Analysis of 120,000 Individuals Identifies New Loci for Breast Cancer (Nature Genetics, 2015)
- Familial Concordance in Cancer Survival: A Swedish Population-Based Study (Lancet Oncology, 2007)
- Genetic Implications of Bilateral Breast Cancer: A Population-Based Cohort Study (Lancet Oncology, 2005)
Through his leadership in collaborative genomic research, Dr. Hartman has contributed to the discovery of key genetic markers associated with breast cancer susceptibility, shaping both diagnosis and preventive medicine worldwide.
Awards and Recognitions
Dr. Mikael Hartman’s excellence has been celebrated through numerous prestigious awards, underscoring his global influence:
- Breast Cancer Concept Award (2002, 2006) – U.S. Army Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs
- Best Poster Presentation – International Surgical Society Meeting, Adelaide, 2009
- NMRC Clinician Scientist Award – 2013 and 2017
- Digital Mammography DREAM Challenge Award – 2017
- Special Recognition Award – Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, NUS (2015, 2017)
- SBAS Recognition Award – Swedish Business Association Singapore, 2014
These accolades reflect his unwavering commitment to advancing medical science, patient advocacy, and education.
Academic Leadership and Teaching
Beyond his clinical and research excellence, Dr. Hartman is an inspiring educator and mentor. At the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, he teaches epidemiology, cancer prevention, and public health, guiding the next generation of physicians and researchers. His dual roles in teaching and research enable students to bridge theoretical knowledge with real-world application, fostering an environment of continuous learning and innovation.
Advancing Global Collaboration Through Vinmec Health System
In Vietnam, Dr. Hartman’s role at Vinmec International Healthcare System has been transformative. As Vice Chairman of the Cancer Council and Director of the Breast Cancer Program, he has spearheaded initiatives to introduce international standards in oncology care, enhance early detection protocols, and establish sustainable models for cancer prevention in Southeast Asia.
Under his guidance, Vinmec has strengthened its capacity to provide world-class breast cancer treatment, integrating cutting-edge technology, evidence-based medicine, and patient-centered care. His contributions have expanded the reach of quality cancer services, offering renewed hope to thousands of women across the region.
The story of Associate Professor, Ph.D, Dr. Mikael Hartman is one of relentless pursuit of excellence, compassion, and innovation in the realm of breast cancer research and treatment. His dual focus on clinical precision and preventive public health has not only advanced cancer care in Singapore and Vietnam but has also set a global benchmark for multidisciplinary collaboration in oncology.
Through his leadership at the Vinmec International Healthcare System and the National University Health System, Dr. Hartman continues to inspire a new era in cancer prevention—one rooted in research, empathy, and global cooperation.
Learn more about Associate Professor, Ph.D, Mikael Hartman’s expertise, surgical specialties, and patient care philosophy on his official profile at Better by MTA. View Profile »
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