IAEA Launches Regional Training in Theranostics with Japan to Boost Cancer Care in Asia

Theranostics combines diagnostic imaging with targeted radiopharmaceutical therapy, offering a personalized treatment approach to combat cancer.

In a major effort to expand nuclear medicine capabilities for non-communicable disease treatment, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), alongside Japanese specialists, recently hosted a pioneering regional training session on theranostic techniques for medical professionals from 15 Asian countries. Held from August 5 to 9, 2024, at the Shonan Kamakura General Hospital (SKGH) in Kanagawa, Japan, this event was part of the IAEA’s Rays of Hope initiative aimed at strengthening cancer care services worldwide.

Theranostics combines diagnostic imaging with targeted radiopharmaceutical therapy, offering a personalized treatment approach to combat cancer. This precision-driven therapy directly targets cancer cells with radioactive drugs, minimizing damage to healthy tissues. By offering shorter treatment times and potentially better patient outcomes, theranostics could help healthcare systems manage resources more efficiently. However, the technology and expertise needed for theranostics are still limited in various regions, a challenge highlighted in the IAEA’s recent Lancet Oncology Commission report.

“Theranostics is a highly advanced and promising approach, and we are glad to share our expertise and facilities with experts from across the region to foster better cancer management,” said Dr. Shuzo Kobayashi, CEO of SKGH.

From Theory to Practice: Hands-On Learning for Regional Medical Experts

During the five-day course, participants received both theoretical knowledge and hands-on exposure to advanced nuclear medicine technologies. Under the guidance of IAEA and Japanese experts, they explored topics such as the properties of radiopharmaceuticals, dose calculation for targeted therapy, and clinical protocols for managing prostate cancer and neuroendocrine tumours—conditions particularly suited for theranostic treatment. Participants were also introduced to boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT), a promising neutron-based cancer treatment.

Through site visits to cutting-edge facilities at SKGH, including a Lu177 Dotatate treatment ward for neuroendocrine tumours, the Shonan Health Innovation Park, and proton beam and BNCT centres, participants saw nuclear medicine innovations in action. According to Francesco Giammarile, an IAEA technical officer, the training was designed to help attendees understand both the scientific basis and real-world implementation of theranostic techniques.

Building a Collaborative Network for Nuclear Medicine

A critical element of the training was fostering collaboration among participants, who engaged in discussions about the practical challenges and benefits of implementing theranostics in their home countries. Batool Essa Albalooshi of the Dubai Health Authority expressed that the program not only exposed her to cutting-edge cancer therapies but also provided actionable strategies to bring back to her clinic, helping her optimize cancer therapy planning.

As part of a broader IAEA collaboration with the Consortium of Universities and Institutions of Japan (CUIJ), additional training programs are planned under Rays of Hope, extending capacity-building efforts in nuclear medicine, radiology, and radiopharmaceutical therapy to regions in need.