LAGOS,Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) and GE HealthCare have partnered to bring advanced mammography technology to Tanzania in an effort to improve access to breast cancer screening and address the country’s high breast cancer mortality rate.
According to a release by GE Healthcare, the collaboration aims to provide radiologists at Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH), the largest public hospital in Tanzania, with the latest mammography technology and advanced imaging training, enabling them to enhance the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of breast cancer.
According to the release statistics have shown that, “Breast cancer is a significant health concern for women worldwide, affecting both developed and developing countries. In Tanzania, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer mortality among women, with more than 80% of diagnoses occurring at later stages (III or IV) when the chances of long-term survival are lower.”
Noting that approximately half of all women diagnosed with breast cancer in Tanzania succumb to the disease, the release said that these alarming statistics highlight the urgent need for improved screening and early detection efforts.
It also hinted that the Muhimbili National Hospital, located in Dar es Salaam, did not have a functioning mammography machine prior to this collaboration.
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“However, through the partnership between RSNA and GE HealthCare, the hospital will receive the Pristina Mammography Suite, which includes cutting-edge 2D and 3D digital breast tomosynthesis, Contrast Enhanced Mammography (CEM), CEM Biopsy capabilities, and a Seno Iris workstation.
“GE HealthCare will also provide maintenance of the system at no charge to the university.
“Approximately twenty nurses, radiologists, and technicians will be involved with the mammography suite.
“The collaboration includes comprehensive training programs that cover the operation of the system, image interpretation, patient care, video tutorials, case study learning, engagement of physicians in a peer learning network, and the issuance of a GE HealthCare-issued certification upon completion of the course.
“This training will empower healthcare professionals to utilize the advanced technology effectively and provide high-quality care to patients.
“The partnership between GE HealthCare, RSNA, and Muhimbili University of Health and Sciences (MUHAS) under the RSNA Global Learning Center (GLC) program will not only improve radiologic practice and breast care in the region but also raise awareness about the importance of breast cancer screening and early detection among Tanzanians.
“The GLC program, established by RSNA in 2020, aims to enhance radiology education and foster international collaborations.
” It has already set up sites in South Africa, Tanzania, Ecuador, Indonesia, and Armenia,” it noted.
President and CEO of Imaging at GE HealthCare, Jan Makela who also spoke expressed the company’s commitment to reducing disparities in care and improving access to medical imaging worldwide.
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Makela emphasized that early detection plays a crucial role in saving lives, and the combined efforts of GE HealthCare, RSNA, and MUHAS have the potential to benefit thousands of women in Tanzania.
“The collaboration will be celebrated with an unveiling event at the breast center of Muhimbili National Hospital on April 17, 2024.
“The initiative represents a significant step forward in the fight against breast cancer in Tanzania and underscores the importance of international partnerships in addressing global healthcare challenges,” it stated