Experts at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) in New York, have trained Nigerian radiologists and radiographers, this to enable them achieve better healthcare for women in Nigeria and represent a commitment to global health.
The training which took place at BT Health and Diagnostic Centre (BTHDC) at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), aims to strengthen breast cancer diagnosis and treatment in Nigeria, leveraging the advanced MRI techniques proven effective at MSKCC.
MSKCC team, Dr. Jeffrey Reiner, highlighted the significance of this collaborative effort. He said; “We have managed to substantially decrease breast cancer mortality in the United States through these advanced MRI techniques. Our goal is to replicate this success worldwide.”
BT Health and Diagnostic Centre stand out as one of the few diagnostic centres in Nigeria that currently offers breast MRI. Given this, MSKCC is keen on partnering closely with collaborators at BT Health and diagnostic centre, ensuring they are well-versed in the latest diagnostic techniques.
Another radiologist from MSKCC, Dr. Victoria Mango, commended PPC Limited and the BT Health and Diagnostic Centre for their proactive approach. “It is essential that patients receive accurate diagnosis and treatment, this training will go a long way in ensuring that.”
Mango further emphasised the critical role of imaging in breast cancer detection. „Breast cancer detection relies heavily on the right tools. Presently, in some parts of Nigeria, the primary detection method remains a physical exam. This technique necessitates the tumor to be large enough for detection through touch,“ Mango explained.” With imaging, the potential to discover cancer when it is still minute, before it can be palpated by a surgeon, becomes a reality.”
While ultrasound remains the starting point for many in Nigeria due to its accessibility and cost, the introduction of mammography is the next logical step. MRI, although more expensive, offers unparalleled detail, which can be critical for early detection and successful treatment.
Mango suggests, that by gradually introducing these modalities, Nigeria can significantly enhance its breast cancer diagnosis and treatment capabilities, potentially saving countless lives.
This collaboration between MSKCC, PPC Limited, and BT Health and Diagnostic Centre, is a significant stride towards better healthcare for women in Nigeria and represents a commitment to global health advancements.
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