The China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) have embarked on a transformative journey to bolster healthcare in Africa. Through the IAEA's 'Rays of Hope' initiative, a three-month training program was recently inaugurated in Chengdu, Sichuan. This program is designed to train radiation therapy physicists, pivotal in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and tumors.
Sixteen trainees from fifteen African countries, including Ghana, Zimbabwe, Burkina Faso, and Namibia, are participating in this program. Their curriculum encompasses theoretical instruction on nuclear medicine and radiation therapy, alongside simulated and hands-on training in treatment planning, quality control, and quality assurance.
A key feature of the program is the inclusion of case studies tailored to common cancers and tumors prevalent in Africa. Additionally, trainees benefit from specialized lectures delivered by esteemed Chinese experts in medical physics, nuclear medicine, and radiation therapy.
Radiation therapy physicists play a critical role in advancing cancer treatment in Africa. With nuclear science and technology offering vast applications in health and medicine, there is an urgent need for capacity building in areas like nuclear medicine and radioactive pharmaceuticals. The 'Rays of Hope' initiative addresses this need by providing technical support, infrastructure, specialized equipment, and personnel training to enhance disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment capabilities in middle- and low-income African countries.
China's collaboration with the IAEA extends beyond this program. The nation has previously provided nuclear medicine technology support, expert assistance, and personnel training to several African countries, including Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Morocco, further cementing its commitment to improving global health standards.
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China, IAEA collaborate to train African radiation therapy physicists
cgtn.com
