Detecting diseases early
A state-of-the-art radiopharmaceutical production facility, which will aid in early diagnosis of life threatening disease, has been opened by Senator Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research in Sydney.
The $10 million facility, built by PETNET Solutions Australia, is a partnership with the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) and global diagnostic company Siemens Medical Solutions.
“The Rudd Government recognises the importance of facilities like this to ensuring that Australia maintains its position as a global leader in nuclear medicine,” Senator Carr said.
“The opening of this world class facility is especially important as it will help provide a secure supply of radiopharmaceuticals given the recent shut down of the Canadian research reactor.
“Through its radiopharmaceutical technology, this facility will help medical experts detect disease early which will mean better health for all Australians.
“By providing a more accurate diagnostic tool, PETNET Solutions will help save lives.
“The facility will use twin cyclotrons, or particle accelerators, to produce a key radiopharmaceutical called FDG (fluorodeoxyglucose). “FDG is used for positron emission tomography (PET) – the most important diagnostic tool for a number of cancers and other life threatening conditions.
“The capability of PETNET Solutions, combined with the production of reactor based isotopes, will strengthen Australia’s ability to achieve local and predictable supply of key radiopharmaceuticals used for diagnosis and for treatment.
“This facility is also an example of the benefits that can come from partnership between science, technology and business.
“Australia has a world class nuclear medicine community, and access to radiopharmaceuticals will allow us to remain a player in the world stage,” Senator Carr said.
