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The Uganda Cancer Institute seeks parliamentary approval and funding to establish a sh110b PET centre, aiming to enhance early cancer detection and reduce overseas referrals.

The Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) informed Parliament that a proposed site for the establishment of a sh110b Positron Emission Tomography (PET) center has been approved and is awaiting groundbreaking. Led by Executive Director Dr. Jackson Orem, UCI emphasized the significance of this project in early cancer detection, anticipating a substantial decrease in referrals abroad with scans priced at only 30% of international rates.

In the latest report from the parliamentary committee on budget, UCI outlined the anticipated return on investment within a decade and requested sh110b to initiate the PET project. The designated site has been cleared, awaiting the commencement of construction. The report, pertaining to the National Budget Framework Paper for the financial years 2024/25 to 2028/29, was ratified by the House on January 31, 2024.

Under the leadership of Kachumbala County MP Patrick Isiagi Opolot, the committee deliberated on UCI’s future as a regional center of excellence in cancer management. This encompasses preventive measures, screening, diagnostics, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgical interventions, as well as research and healthcare personnel training in oncology. Opolot emphasized the necessity for substantial initial investments in infrastructure and equipment to meet international standards.

The lawmakers underscored the importance of projects like the PET center, recognizing its role in modern diagnostic medicine. Despite its high cost, estimated between $1.7m and $2.5m (approximately sh6.6b and sh9.7b), experts acknowledge the limitations faced by patients unable to travel abroad for PET scans due to their health condition. This highlights the urgency for advanced medical facilities within Uganda to enhance patient care and mitigate logistical challenges associated with international travel.