Health 16 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Cancer Institute to Launch PET Scan Services by December
The Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) is accelerating efforts to establish a Positron Emission Tomography (PET) center, aiming to provide advanced cancer diagnostic services to Ugandans by December. This development is expected to significantly improve cancer detection and patient outcomes. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/ugandans-to-access-pet-scan-services-in-december-5597032
Ugandans are set to gain access to advanced Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan services as the Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) works to finalize the establishment of a dedicated PET center. This initiative is a crucial step in enhancing the country’s capacity for accurate cancer diagnosis.
Dr. Nixon Niyonzima, the head of research and training at UCI, confirmed that the institute anticipates having the PET scan services operational by December. The introduction of PET scans is expected to revolutionize how cancer is detected and managed in Uganda.
PET scans offer a unique capability to visualize the functional processes within organs and cells. This allows medical professionals to identify subtle abnormalities, such as the earliest signs of cancer, which might be missed by other imaging technologies like MRI. Early and precise detection is paramount in improving treatment success rates and patient survival.
The UCI’s push to operationalize the PET center underscores a commitment to leveraging cutting-edge medical technology to combat cancer more effectively. This advancement is poised to benefit countless patients by providing a more sensitive and accurate diagnostic tool, ultimately leading to better health outcomes.