Boost in early detection of breast cancer as IAEA Project ends

A three-year International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Mammography Project aimed at expanding nationwide breast cancer screening and improving diagnostic capacity has been completed, the Ministry of Health said.

A closing training session brought together medical teams from hospitals in Lethem, Suddie, Linden and New Amsterdam—currently the only site equipped with tomosynthesis—as well as staff from the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation to standardise mammography and tomosynthesis use across major facilities.

The project followed the enactment of the 2023 Radiation Safety and Security Act, which established a national regulatory framework for radiation safety. Siemens provided one-week applications training at each site, with Allied Health and Continuing Medical Education credits issued. A PACS evaluation was also completed to support remote radiologist access and strengthen diagnostic connectivity.

Cancer Care Coordinator Dr. Haaniques Greaves said the country is the only one in the Caribbean to install four mammography units under a single project and the only one with comprehensive radiation legislation retaining existing regulatory authorities while adding oversight through a Radiation Board. The model is now being studied by several regional states.

New Amsterdam Hospital CEO Dr. Bob Ramnauth said the project forms part of a structured effort to modernise radiology services, noting the hospital has completed more than 20,000 x-rays this year following upgrades from analogue to digital systems.

According to the ministry, the initiative has enhanced imaging access, workforce skills and national diagnostic capacity. It pledged to maintain the gains and continue strengthening early detection and cancer care.