The 5th Annual UAE International Nuclear Medicine Conference, held in collaboration with the Arab Society for Nuclear Medicine, wrapped up on Sunday at the Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences. Medical experts and professionals stressed the need to expand the use of modern technologies in nuclear medicine, especially for diagnosing and treating cancer and chronic illnesses.
Revolutionising Cancer Treatment
Dr. Batoul Al Balooshi, Assistant Professor of Nuclear Medicine and President of the Arab Society for Nuclear Medicine, highlighted a significant shift in the treatment of complex cancers that don’t respond to traditional chemotherapy or radiation. She revealed that through advanced nuclear medicine techniques, 15 patients from inside and outside the UAE with prostate and endocrine tumours have been successfully treated, with all showing complete tumour control.
“This success proves how effective nuclear medicine is as a key part of personalised modern medicine,” she said. “It enhances patient recovery and offers better quality of life.”
UAE’s Growing Nuclear Medicine Infrastructure
Dr. Al Balooshi also noted that the UAE is a regional leader in this field, with 14 specialised nuclear medicine centres across the country, equipped with the latest devices and technologies. These centres enable healthcare providers to offer precise diagnoses and targeted therapies that minimize harm to healthy tissues while improving treatment outcomes.
Key Conference Highlights
On the second day, the conference featured scientific sessions covering:
- Latest advancements in treating thyroid cancer using “Thyranostix” diagnostic therapy
- Challenges in oncological surgeries and post-treatment care
- The role of Lu-PSMA 617 in prostate cancer radiotherapy
- Emerging therapies comparing Lu-177 and TB-161
- Innovations targeting PSMA receptors for imaging and treatment
Looking Ahead: Collaboration and Awareness
At the conclusion of the conference, participants emphasized the importance of:
- Strengthening training and qualification programs for healthcare professionals
- Supporting joint scientific research and global partnerships
- Launching initiatives to raise public awareness about nuclear medicine’s benefits, especially for early detection and precision treatment
With these recommendations, the UAE aims to remain at the forefront of medical innovation, offering cutting-edge, personalised care for cancer patients across the region.
