Vietnam expands radiopharmaceutical production for cancer care

Vietnam is expanding its capacity to produce radiopharmaceuticals for cancer diagnosis and treatment as part of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) ‘Rays of Hope’ initiative. This program aims to reduce gaps in oncological services in low- and middle-income countries.

Phan Viet Cuong, Deputy Director of the Vietnam Atomic Energy Institute (Vinatom), stated that the country is implementing a long-term strategy for the peaceful application of atomic energy through 2035. Key developments include the Nuclear Science and Technology Research Centre project, which will feature a new research reactor in Dong Nai.

To enhance production and reduce import dependency, Vinatom is collaborating with the Korea Institute of Radiological & Medical Sciences (KIRAMS). This partnership focuses on cyclotron technology, human resource training, and upgrading fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) production at the Hanoi Irradiation Centre. Additionally, Vietnamese personnel will receive training in South Korea regarding accelerator operation and radiopharmaceutical production.