Trends in Nuclear Medicine in Developing Countries

Abstract

This article describes trends in nuclear medicine in the developing world as noted by nuclear medicine professionals at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The trends identified are based on data gathered from several sources, including information gathered through a database maintained by the IAEA; evaluation of country program frameworks of various IAEA Member States; personal interactions with representatives in the nuclear medicine field from different regions of the world; official proceedings and meeting reports of the IAEA; participation in numerous national, regional, and international conferences; discussions with the leadership of major professional societies; and relevant literature. The information presented in this article relied on both objective and subjective observations. The aims of this article were to reflect on recent developments in the specialty of nuclear medicine and to envision the directions in which it is progressing. These issues are examined in terms of dimensions of practice, growth, and educational and training needs in the field of nuclear medicine. This article will enable readers to gain perspective on the status of nuclear medicine practice, with a specific focus on the developing world, and to examine needs and trends arising from the observations.

Targeted Radionuclide Therapy: Proceedings of a Joint Workshop Hosted by the National Cancer Institute and the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging

“…One challenge that should be considered by stakeholders is to identity ways to propel existing data on TRT forward more quickly in support of U.S. approvals. Another challenge is to directly address the various logistic problems cited in the workshop: limited access to TRT for patients and providers, perceived high cost, turf issues, patient perceptions and fears, and the need for multidisciplinary teams supported by strong TRT education efforts (123)(124)(125)(126)(127)(128)(129)(130)(131)(132).…”

Tele-nuclear medicine

“…A recent comprehensive review of nuclear medicine trends in developing countries by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) 2 emphasised increasing mortality and morbidity in developing nations from chronic and non-communicable diseases. Thus nuclear medicine's role in disease management there has increased, especially for neoplastic and cardiological conditions, although its application has been slower than desired.…”

“…2 These drawbacks, especially inadequate training, 'hamper the growth of nuclear medicine practice in the developing world' and reduce 'the ability of nuclear medicine facilities to respond to the needs of referring clinicians'. …”

Activity based costing of diagnostic procedures at a nuclear medicine center of a tertiary care hospital

“…Demographic changes coupled with the rising impact of chronic diseases, is widening the role of NM in management of the diverse group of diseases in various parts of the world. [2]…”