About Firapy Study Club
About the Club
The FIRAPY Study Club is a professional, non-profit society dedicated to advancing the science and clinical understanding of far-infrared (FIR) therapy, FIRAPY. Founded in Taiwan and Japan and connected to a growing international network of scholars and clinicians, we serve as a neutral platform where evidence, ideas, and best practices are exchanged across disciplines and borders. Our work emphasizes scientific rigor, open dialogue, and responsible translation of research into clinical practice.
Mission
To advance research, understanding, and international academic exchange in far-infrared (FIR) therapy through scientific collaboration and evidence-based practice.
Objectives
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Convene high-quality academic symposia, conferences, and workshops devoted to FIR therapy.
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Collaborate internationally with academic societies, universities, hospitals, and research groups worldwide engaged in FIR research.
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Encourage publishing scholarly materials—including journals, position statements, and educational resources—on FIR science and clinical applications.
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Support other academic activities that strengthen FIR research, education, and responsible clinical adoption.
International Collaboration
Global exchange is at the heart of our mission. We foster cross-border partnerships, joint research initiatives, and visiting-scholar programs; co-host symposia and webinars with overseas societies; and facilitate multicenter studies that harmonize methodologies and strengthen the quality of evidence. Through these collaborations, we connect communities spanning nephrology, vascular access, rehabilitation, wound care, pain medicine, cardiovascular and metabolic health, biomedical engineering, and medical physics.
Activities & Programs
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Scientific Meetings: Annual and mid-year symposia, thematic workshops, and method clinics.
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Education: Webinars, case conferences, and open teaching resources for clinicians and trainees.
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Publications: Evidence briefs, consensus statements, and curated literature summaries.
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Research Enablement: Study matchmaking, protocol peer review, and data-sharing guidance.
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Community: Networking across specialties and regions to accelerate rigorous, reproducible research.
Invitation to Collaborate
We welcome institutions, societies, and investigators interested in FIR science and clinical translation. To propose a joint symposium, multicenter study, or educational partnership, please contact our Secretariat. Together, we aim to elevate the quality of evidence, expand interdisciplinary dialogue, and improve patient outcomes through responsible innovation.
Broad Member (2nd Term)
Club Chair
Chyiran Lee
Mr. Chyiran Lee has devoted his career life to the development and industrialization of medical far-infrared (FIR) technology. With over three decades of dedication, he has led the research, design, and manufacturing of FIR devices that truly embody the scientific principles of far-infrared radiation.
Under his leadership, continuous investment in both clinical and basic research has strengthened the scientific foundation of FIR therapy and accelerated its transition from a traditional folk remedy to an evidence-based medical modality.
Through persistent effort and collaboration with clinical experts worldwide, Mr. Lee has played a pivotal role in advancing FIR therapy into mainstream medical practice — including its recognition in the K/DOQI clinical practice guidelines ERBP guideline and as a recommended adjunctive treatment for vascular access care in dialysis patients.
His lifelong mission is to ensure that safe, effective, and scientifically validated FIR therapy continues to benefit patients and contribute to the future of integrative medicine.
Broad Member
Shang-Jyh Hwang
Professor, School of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical UniversityAttending Nephrologist, Kaohsiung Medical University HospitalDirector, Center for Precision Exercise Medicine and Health Promotion, Kaohsiung Medical UniversityFormer Vice Superintendent, Kaohsiung Medical University HospitalHonorary President, Taiwan Society of Nephrology
Dr. Shang-Jyh Hwang is a renowned nephrologist and educator, widely regarded as the father of CKD education in Taiwan. He led the development of Taiwan’s national program for chronic kidney disease prevention, integrating community screening and patient education into public health policy.Through decades of leadership in nephrology and medical education, Dr. Hwang has advanced kidney health awareness across Asia. He remains deeply interested in innovative, non-invasive therapies such as far-infrared therapy, and continues to promote evidence-based approaches to improve patient care.
Makoto Saito
Assistant Professor, Department of Clinical Engineering, Gunma Paz UniversityClinical Engineer, Gunma Cardiovascular CenterFormer Clinical Engineer, Kan-Etsu Chuo Hospital, Isesaki Municipal Hospital, and Tomioka General Hospital (Japan)
Mr. Makoto Saito is a specialist in biomedical and clinical engineering at Gunma Paz University in Japan. Deeply engaged in both the clinical and basic research of far-infrared (FIR) therapy, his work explores its physiological mechanisms and therapeutic applications in hemodialysis and vascular health.With a master’s degree in health sciences, Mr. Saito has led clinical engineering programs and served as visiting faculty at Yangon University of Medical Technology, promoting international collaboration in biomedical innovation. He is also a core member of the FIRAPY Study Club Japan, actively participating in and promoting FIRAPY research and educational activities throughout the country. His research continues to bridge engineering and medicine to enhance safe and effective FIR therapy in patient care.
Chung-Kuan Wu
Director, Vascular Access Center, Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital
Attending Physician, Division of Nephrology and Peripheral Vascular Medicine, Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital
Associate Professor, School of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University
Completed Advanced Training in Upper Limb and Peripheral Vascular Ultrasound, Tokyo, Japan
Dr. Chung-Kuan Wu is a nephrologist specializing in vascular access management and peripheral vascular medicine. In addition to applying far-infrared (FIR) therapy in the care and maintenance of vascular access for dialysis patients, Dr. Wu has been actively engaged in FIR-related clinical and translational research, publishing studies that explore its mechanisms and therapeutic benefits. His work exemplifies the integration of innovative, non-invasive approaches into nephrology practice to improve long-term outcomes for dialysis patients.
A Reflection on Far-Infrared Therapy
As a nephrologist dedicated to the long-term care of dialysis patients, I have witnessed how various challenges—such as the failure of arteriovenous fistula (AVF) maturation, inadequate access flow, stenosis, peritoneal dysfunction, peripheral arterial disease, chronic wounds, pain, and cardiovascular complications—can greatly affect patient outcomes. Research has shown that non-invasive far-infrared (FIR) therapy produces remarkable benefits across these conditions.
With its ability to enhance microcirculation, reduce oxidative stress, and improve vascular function, FIR therapy has been demonstrated to accelerate AVF maturation, maintain patency, reduce stenosis, and improve peritoneal function. Clinical evidence also supports its positive effects on peripheral perfusion, wound healing, pain relief, and cardiovascular health. For dialysis patients, these advantages translate into better quality of life and improved dialysis efficiency.
I sincerely hope that the FIRAPY Study Club will establish evidence-based clinical guidelines for FIR therapy, providing a safe and effective therapeutic option for patients with chronic kidney disease and related vascular disorders.
Cheng-Chan Yang
Assistant Professor, Department of Life Science, National Dong Hwa UniversityAssistant Professor, School of Post-Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, Tzu Chi UniversityDirector, Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Mennonite Christian HospitalPresident, Taiwan Society of Pediatrics and Adolescent Chinese Medicine
Dr. Cheng-Chan Yang is a physician-scientist specializing in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) pediatrics and integrative medicine. With a clinical background in TCM and academic training in physiology, anatomy, and electrical engineering, Dr. Yang has devoted his work to advancing evidence-based approaches in pediatric and adolescent health.He currently serves as Director of the Department of TCM at Mennonite Christian Hospital and holds dual assistant professorships at National Dong Hwa University and Tzu Chi University. Dr. Yang’s research and clinical interests encompass pediatric disorders, adolescent constitution adjustment, post-COVID syndromes, and autonomic dysfunction, as well as exploring non-invasive therapeutic modalities such as far-infrared therapy for chronic disease management.
A Reflection on Far-Infrared Therapy
The 2018 study “Effects of Combined Far-Infrared Radiation and Acupuncture at ST36 on Peripheral Blood Perfusion and Autonomic Activities” demonstrated that combining far-infrared therapy with acupuncture at the Zusanli (ST36) point enhances peripheral blood perfusion and parasympathetic activity more effectively than either treatment alone.As recorded in the Huangdi Neijing: “When the meridians are obstructed, qi and blood stagnate, and illness arises.” By integrating traditional Chinese medicine with far-infrared therapy, we can achieve even greater therapeutic benefits. I sincerely hope that through the continued promotion of far-infrared therapy, this approach will contribute to improving public health and the well-being of all.”
Ming-Yen Lin
Associate Research Fellow, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital
Adjunct Assistant Professor, Department of Renal Care, Kaohsiung Medical University
Researcher, Taiwan Instrument Research Institute, National Applied Research Laboratories (NARLabs)
Guest Editor, Scientific Reports, Frontiers in Public Health, and Journal of Personalized Medicine
Dr. Ming-Yen Lin holds a Ph.D. in Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety from Kaohsiung Medical University and has extensive experience in translational and public health research related to nephrology and environmental medicine. His work bridges clinical research, biomedical instrumentation, and public health, focusing on how environmental and occupational factors influence kidney function and chronic disease outcomes.
As an active collaborator of the FIRAPY Study Club, Dr. Lin participates in far-infrared (FIR) therapy research projects and clinical data analysis, contributing his expertise in study design, biostatistics, and health outcome evaluation. He continues to promote evidence-based innovation in renal care and non-invasive therapeutic development.
A Reflection on Far-Infrared Therapy
Sunlight, water, and air are the three essential elements for life.
The universal presence of sunlight transforms the accidental into the inevitable, and light itself drives the miracles of human civilization. Yet, the scientific evidence concerning the biological and health effects of various forms of light—such as infrared, far-infrared, and narrowband UV-B—remains limited. As public health demands grow, the market has become flooded with unscientific and misleading claims.
From the perspective of far-infrared (FIR) radiation, what are the true scientific principles and biological mechanisms? In what ways does it benefit health and life, and can these effects be quantified? From the user’s experience, its efficacy is certainly not imaginary nor merely a placebo effect.
I sincerely hope that the establishment of this Society will foster deeper inquiry, clearer understanding, and a more comprehensive appreciation of light—the indispensable element of life—and its effective applications throughout the human life course under various conditions.
Ms. Hui-Mei YangHead
Nurse, Division of Metabolism, Keelung Chang Gung Memorial HospitalSpecialist Nurse, Division of Metabolism, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial HospitalCore Member, Wound Care Team, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial HospitalM.Sc. in Nursing, National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences
Ms. Hui-Mei Yang is a highly experienced clinical nurse specializing in metabolic and chronic wound care. As a core member of the Wound Care Team at Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, she has played a key role in developing and implementing advanced wound management practices.Through years of caring for patients with chronic wounds, she has personally witnessed how far-infrared (FIR) therapy can gradually restore blood color and vitality to affected tissues, leading to significant healing improvement. Having seen these benefits firsthand, Ms. Yang remains a strong advocate for integrating FIR therapy into clinical wound care to enhance recovery and patient outcomes.A
A Reflection on Far-Infrared Therapy
With lifestyle changes, the prevalence of diabetes continues to rise. Among patients with diabetes, peripheral arterial disease (PAD) affects approximately 20–28%, and among those with diabetic foot ulcers, the prevalence of PAD increases to nearly 50%. Arterial occlusion reduces local oxygen delivery, leading to intermittent claudication, pain, ischemic wounds, and impaired healing.For diabetic patients, early diagnosis and prevention of PAD are crucial. Timely interventions—such as glucose, blood pressure, and lipid control; smoking cessation; antiplatelet or vasodilator therapy; and vascular reconstruction—can significantly improve outcomes.Recent studies have shown that far-infrared (FIR) therapy may alleviate symptoms of obstructive peripheral arterial disease, improving claudication, foot pain, temperature, and arterial blood flow. I sincerely hope that through the efforts and advocacy of the FIRAPY Study Club, the evidence-based research and clinical applications of FIR therapy will become more widely recognized and benefit more patients in need.
Yun-Fan Chen
Chief Executive Officer, Kenshang Health Management
Executive Director, Bon Vivant Academy of Healthy Living
Guest Editor, Scientific Reports
Former Chief Technology Officer, Cathay Health Management
Former Deputy Director, Nutrition Counseling Division, Jen-Hsin Clinic, Ruentex Group
Former Nutrition Consultant, Yongyue Biotech, Hon Hai Group
Ms. Yun-Fan Chen is a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in Food Science from National Chung Hsing University. She has extensive experience in clinical nutrition, corporate health management, and public wellness education.
Deeply committed to promoting healthy eating and balanced living, Ms. Chen believes that far-infrared (FIR) therapy, like nutrition, is a natural and essential element of a healthy lifestyle. Through her leadership and educational initiatives, she continues to advocate for integrative, evidence-based approaches that empower individuals to achieve long-term wellness.
A Reflection on Far-Infrared Therapy
Life’s true pursuits are simple yet profound — to live with ease, to feel comfortable in one’s body, and to be free from want. I wish to fill each day with the beauty of fine food, graceful people, and meaningful moments.
As a pioneer of lifestyle medicine, I believe that health problems are complex and cannot be solved by a single approach. This belief inspired me to gather a team of experts, working together to address each individual’s unique needs.
Nutrition is not a shortcut — there is no miracle pill or express lane to well-being. Guided by the philosophy of a garden, I founded Kenshang Health to nurture every person with the patience and attentiveness of a gardener tending to life. In an age where “healthy meals” are mass-produced, I advocate for the irreplaceable role of dietitians, ensuring that nutrition truly prevents chronic illness rather than just appearing healthy on the surface.
With a foundation in nutritional science and an appreciation for the aesthetics of living, I write not only about nutrition, but about life itself — how to move beyond merely living our days to discovering how to live them well. Through each monthly essay, I hope to inspire reflection, gratitude, and a renewed pursuit of a more balanced, beautiful life.
Newmen Pui
Mr. Nan-Mou Pei is a highly experienced executive in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, with a distinguished career spanning over three decades. Trained in pharmacy at National Taiwan University, he has held senior leadership roles across international and domestic pharmaceutical companies, overseeing corporate strategy, business development, and innovation.
Despite his deep roots in the pharmaceutical field, Mr. Pui remains passionately engaged in exploring the scientific frontiers of far-infrared therapy. He believes that many of its physiological mechanisms and therapeutic potentials are still waiting to be uncovered, and he continues to advocate for evidence-based research and global academic exchange to advance this promising field.
Supervisory board
Dr. Jih-Chung Chiang
Director, Yu-Chung Clinic (Taichung, Taiwan)
Former Director, Far-Infrared Therapy Center, Show Chwan Memorial Hospital
Former Cardiovascular Surgeon, Taichung Veterans General Hospital
Dr. Jih-Chung Chiang is a distinguished vascular surgeon from Taiwan, renowned for his pioneering work in arteriovenous fistula (AVF) surgery and vascular access reconstruction. Over the course of his career, he has performed more than 15,000 vascular access procedures, earning recognition as one of Taiwan’s most experienced fistula surgeons.
He was also the first surgeon in the world to apply far-infrared (FIR) therapy to the treatment of hemodialysis vascular access dysfunction. Motivated by a deep compassion for patients and a relentless pursuit of better outcomes, Dr. Chiang initiated a new chapter in the academic and clinical exploration of FIR therapy. His innovative spirit transformed what began as a simple act of care into a scientific journey that continues to shape modern vascular and dialysis medicine.
Mong-Hong Lee
Director, Taipei Dialysis Clinic
President, Taiwan Association for Quality of Life Promotion in Dialysis Patients
President, Taiwan Society for Blood Purification
Former Director, Department of Hemodialysis, Ren-Ai Hospital (Taipei)
Former Attending Nephrologist, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital
Dr. Mong-Hong Lee is a nephrologist with more than 20 years of clinical experience, specializing in hemodialysis, diabetic nephropathy, and renal care for elderly patients. Holding dual degrees in Medicine and Public Health, he integrates preventive medicine, lifestyle management, and intelligent physiological monitoring to enhance the quality of life for patients with chronic kidney disease.
As Director of the Taipei Dialysis Clinic, Dr. Lee is deeply committed to advancing preventive nephrology and health management, offering personalized patient education and chronic disease care. He also promotes international medical cooperation, facilitating dialysis treatment for visiting patients from abroad. His work exemplifies a forward-looking approach that combines clinical expertise, patient-centered care, and smart healthcare innovation.
Kai-Hsiung Hsu
Assistant Professor, Department of Bio-Mechatronics Engineering, National Ilan University
Director, Innovation and Incubation Center, National Ilan University
Dr. Kai-Hsiung Hsu is an interdisciplinary scholar whose expertise spans biomechatronics, biomedical engineering, and bioelectromagnetics. He teaches a wide range of subjects, including engineering materials, biomedical instrumentation, signal processing, neurostimulation and modeling, biophysics, and thermodynamics.
His research interests extend into the frontier between physics and biology, particularly the interaction between far-infrared (FIR) radiation and biological systems. One of his notable studies, presented at the IEEE International Forum in 2009, explored the use of FIR irradiation in the treatment of phantom limb pain. Beyond his scientific work, Dr. Hsu is also known for his public lectures on biophysical perception—such as “Do Plants Have Emotions?”—and for editing the Chinese edition of the book The Secret Life of Plants.
Driven by curiosity and an unyielding passion for discovery, Dr. Hsu continues to explore the unknown realms of science, focusing on the subtle yet profound interactions between FIR energy and living organisms.