Amman, February 17 (Petra) – Minister of Health Firas Hawari inaugurated the expansion and modernization of the Nuclear Medicine Department and the Therapeutic Radiology Department at the Oncology, Therapeutic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine Hospital affiliated with the al-Bashir Hospitals on Monday.
The ceremony was attended by Deputy Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Hua Liu and Chairman of the Jordan Atomic Energy Commission Khaled Toukan.
During the inauguration, Hawari and Liu launched the advanced positron emission tomography (PET-CT) device, representing a significant advancement in medical diagnostics within the Ministry of Health. The device, valued at $2 million, was co-funded by the International Atomic Energy Agency and the Joint Grant Fund (MDA). It is an advanced medical technology that combines positron emission tomography (PET) with computed tomography (CT) to produce highly accurate, three-dimensional images of organs and tissues. It is primarily used to diagnose cancerous tumors, assess their progression, and evaluate treatment response. Additionally, it aids in diagnosing heart and neurological disorders, among other conditions. The device is also integrated with the linear accelerator for precision radiation therapy, ensuring advanced and efficient cancer treatment while maximizing cost-effectiveness.
Hawari stated that the introduction of the PET-CT device aligns with the ministry’s ongoing efforts to enhance medical infrastructure and improve diagnostic accuracy. He emphasized that the new technology marks a transformative step in diagnosing and treating a variety of medical conditions, including cancerous and non-cancerous diseases.
The project was implemented in collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency, the Jordan Atomic Energy Commission, and the Joint Grant Fund. The cooperation included providing technical support and specialized training for the hospital’s medical and technical staff to ensure safe and effective operation of the device.
Hawari highlighted that extensive training was provided to the technical staff on both technical and radiation aspects of the device. All necessary procedures and protocols were implemented to meet international safety and quality standards, underscoring the hospital’s commitment to delivering high-quality medical services.
Deputy Director General of the IAEA Hua Liu noted that the achievement underscores the robust partnership between the Agency and Jordan, contributing to enhanced diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities. He added that the initiative is part of the “Rays of Hope” program, which aims to improve early diagnosis and facilitate tailored treatment plans, ultimately enhancing patient recovery rates.
Liu highlighted significant advancements in cancer treatment capabilities in Jordan, including the provision of advanced medical equipment such as the linear accelerator (LINAC) and SPECT-CT systems. He noted that the addition of the PET-CT scanner represents a major step forward in enhancing diagnostic and therapeutic opportunities for patients in the Kingdom.
Director of the Oncology, Therapeutic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine Hospital, Jihad Maani, described the PET-CT device as a remarkable achievement in nuclear medicine and medical imaging. He explained that the device offers unprecedented diagnostic accuracy, enabling doctors to create more effective and personalized treatment plans while facilitating early disease detection, thereby improving patient recovery rates and overall quality of life.
//Petra// AJ
17/02/2025 16:08:41
