This archive report was first published on 6 August 2019.
Published on August 6, 2019, a workshop on diagnostic imaging, treatment, dosimetry, and maintenance is currently underway in Mombasa, Kenya. The five-day event brings together medical practitioners from across the continent to discuss the importance of enhancing access to better, safer, and modern diagnostic and treatment routines such as radiotherapy.
The workshop is an initiative by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) to support the Government's Big Four Agenda – Healthcare program. This program involves diagnostic imaging and radiotherapy application, where international trading relationships are built on.
According to Dr. Henry Rotich, Director, Metrology and Testing, KEBS, 'At KEBS, we wish to emphasize the value of national quality infrastructure as the very foundation on which cutting-edge health programs are built. Healthcare trust is built through quality infrastructure that must include standards, testing, metrology, calibration, accreditation, dosimetry, codes, and regulations designed to ensure a high level of confidence in the outcome of medical service.'
Over the past 40 years, medical imaging has revolutionized healthcare. Radiotherapy has been touted as a key pillar in comprehensive cancer treatment and in medical imaging tools that are used for disease detection.
Approximately 3.6 billion diagnostic medical examinations, such as X-rays, are performed every year worldwide. Over half of newly diagnosed cases and 40% of cancer cures are obtained using radiotherapy alone or in combination with surgery and/or chemotherapy.
Using radiation in medical imaging can save lives and prevent the need for more invasive procedures. However, Dr. Rotich warns that this should be used cautiously as inappropriate use may lead to unnecessary and unintended radiation doses for patients.
Through the workshop, KEBS aims to collaborate with international experts, researchers, and decision-makers to improve and strengthen safety regulations, standards, and practice in the application of imaging and radiotherapy technique in Kenya.
