ORCI investment expands cancer treatment capacity

**DAR ES SALAAM: **TANZANIA has invested more than 60bn/- in strengthening cancer diagnosis and treatment services at the Ocean Road Cancer Institute (ORCI) over five years, with new medical technologies and radiotherapy equipment expected to expand treatment capacity and improve access to specialised care.

The investment includes advanced diagnostic equipment, such as positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) and mammography machines, alongside radiotherapy technology intended to improve the delivery of cancer treatment.

The developments were highlighted during Breast Cancer Awareness Month activities held at ORCI in Dar es Salaam yesterday, where Deputy Minister for Health, Dr Florence Samizi, urged Tanzanians to seek medical attention promptly when they notice unusual changes in their breasts.

Dr Samizi, who represented the Minister for Health, Mohamed Mchengerwa, said public awareness was essential in encouraging early detection, addressing misconceptions about breast cancer and ensuring patients sought professional medical advice without unnecessary delays.

She said the government had continued investing in cancer-care infrastructure and modern equipment to strengthen the country’s capacity to diagnose and treat the disease.

“Through this investment, the government has facilitated the installation of modern cancer diagnostic equipment, including PET-CT Scan and modern mammography machines,” Dr Samizi said.

Mammography uses lowdose X-rays to examine breast tissue and can help detect abnormalities, including breast cancer, before symptoms appear.

It is also used to investigate changes in the breast that require further assessment.

PET-CT combines information about metabolic activity in body tissues with detailed anatomical images, helping specialists assess the extent of cancer and determine whether it may have spread to other parts of the body. Its use depends on the patient’s condition and the clinical information required.

“The two technologies serve different purposes and complement other investigations, including clinical examinations and laboratory and pathology tests, in establishing a diagnosis and planning appropriate treatment,” she said.

Dr Samizi also highlighted the addition of three radiotherapy machines as part of efforts to increase ORCI’s capacity to treat cancer patients, improve treatment delivery and reduce delays in accessing services.

Radiotherapy uses carefully planned doses of radiation to destroy cancer cells or control their growth while limiting exposure to surrounding healthy tissues as much as possible.

The additional equipment is expected to help the institute manage patient demand more effectively. The time required for radiotherapy varies according to the type of cancer, the treatment area and the regimen prescribed by specialists.

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ORCI Executive Director, Dr Diwani Msemo, said the investment was directed towards improving infrastructure, introducing modern technologies and increasing the institute’s capacity to provide specialised cancer diagnosis and treatment services.

“The improvements form part of broader efforts to strengthen cancer-care services and enable more patients to receive specialised treatment within the country,” he said.

Breast cancer survivor, Ms Lilian Kabengula, who completed chemotherapy cycles, surgery and radiation therapy, shared how the PET Scan gives her hope of confirming her recovery.

“I am a breast cancer survivor and right now I am waiting to undergo the PET Scan test. I have no fear because the treatment I received made me feel completely healthy, and this test will officially confirm my cancer-free status.

“I urge citizens not to lose hope or run to traditional healers, but rather to utilize hospital facilities and these modern diagnostics,” Ms Kabengula said.

During the awareness event, Dr Samizi urged Tanzanians to seek medical advice when they notice unusual breast changes, including a lump, changes in breast shape or skin, or abnormalities involving the nipple.

She emphasised that public education was necessary to address fear and misconceptions surrounding breast cancer and encourage people to seek professional assessment rather than delay care.

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