IAEA conducts first regional training on personalized cancer management tool: Theranostics

In a significant step towards advancing nuclear medicine capacities to address a growing global burden of non-communicable diseases, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), in collaboration with Japanese experts, recently carried out its first regional training on theranostic techniques for medical professionals from 15 Asian countries.

The training, part of IAEA's Rays of Hope initiative to expand cancer care, was held from 5 to 9 August 2024 in Kanagawa, Japan, in collaboration with the Shonan Kamakura General Hospital (SKGH) - a member of the Consortium of Universities and Institutions of Japan (CUIJ) and a Rays of Hope Anchor Centre.

Theranostics is an innovative field of personalized, precision medicine that brings together diagnostic imaging and targeted therapy to treat cancer and other non-communicable diseases. It uses radiopharmaceuticals to precisely reach cancer cells and destroy them, sparing healthy tissues as much as possible.

The combined approach can lead to shorter treatment times, improved outcomes for patients, and more efficient use of healthcare resources. While the field is evolving, access to the necessary technology and expertise remains limited in some parts of the world. A recent IAEA-led Lancet Oncology Commission on Radiotherapy and Theranostics highlighted the need for further investment and training to fully realize the benefits of the approach for more patients.

"Theranostics is a highly advanced and promising approach, and we are glad to share our expertise and facilities with experts from across the region to foster better cancer management," said Dr. Shuzo Kobayashi, Chief Executive Officer of SKGH, who led in the organization of the event.