Commenting on the use of nuclear medicine in cancer treatment, Dr Syed explained that one type of this treatment is given to patients over the age of 18 who were diagnosed with neuroendocrine tumours that have spread in the body and have not responded to conventional therapies. Another type of this treatment is given to male patients with metastatic prostate cancer who have not responded to hormonal therapy.
“By incorporating these advanced therapeutic approaches for our patients at HMC, the Nuclear Medicine Department has now become part of the global network committed to implementing established guidelines on clinical and technical practices, patient safety, and radiation protection,” added Dr Ghulam Syed.
Dr Syed explained that with the introduction of Lutetium-based treatments, patients can now continue their treatment journey to control cancer, particularly for those with neuroendocrine tumours and prostate cancer who have not responded to hormonal or chemotherapy. They now have a new treatment option comprising 4 to 6 doses administered at intervals of 6 to 8 weeks. The fight against the disease commences with the initial dose, and over time, doctors observe significant improvements in patients’ conditions.
“Every year, there are approximately eight to 10 patients with neuroendocrine tumours and about 16 patients with prostate cancer who don’t respond to conventional treatment options. These patients can now receive treatment with the new modalities available at HMC and avoid the need to travel abroad,” said Dr Syed.
