Cancer patients in Kenya and the larger East and Central African region have a new reason to hope after Healthcare Global Cancer Centre (HCG) unveiled the first Positron Emission Tomography (PET) CT scanner and Cyclotron in the region.
The ultra-modern imaging technology is set to revolutionize cancer diagnosis and treatment, with the ability to detect even a single cancer cell.
Speaking during the launch, Dr. B S Ajei Kumar, Executive Chairman at HCG Hospitals, hailed the new machine as a “game-changer” in cancer care. “This PET-CT scanner will allow doctors to see exactly where the cancer cells are in the body, enabling better staging and treatment. Our goal is to transform cancer into a manageable chronic disease, allowing patients to live longer and better lives,” Dr. Kumar said.
The PET-CT scanner combines molecular imaging with traditional X-ray CT scanning, offering highly precise diagnostic information. In addition to detecting cancer, the machine also supports theranostics—where imaging and therapy are combined—allowing doctors not only to find cancer but also to target treatment directly to affected areas.
Bhupendra Kumar Bharti, Chief Operating Officer of HCG Cancer Institute, noted that this is the first machine of its kind in East Africa, with technology that uses gallium radiotracers. “We can now perform four different types of scans—prostate, neuroendocrine tumors, FAPI, and whole-body scans,” he said. “This capability is rare, even in countries like South Africa, and we plan to introduce up to 14 different radioactive tracers in the coming months.”Previously, many Kenyan cancer patients were forced to travel abroad for PET-CT scans, incurring high costs and logistical challenges. However, with the new facility, they can now access world-class diagnostic services locally.
In another major boost, the recently introduced Social Health Authority (SHA) scheme will cover 80% to 95% of the cost for PET scans, meaning patients will only need to pay between KSh 5,000 to KSh 6,000 out of pocket. Patients were encouraged to register for SHA to benefit from the subsidized services.
Cancer survivors like Fatuma Idi and Sister Ann Gathegu shared their testimonies at the event. Fatuma, who was diagnosed with stage 2 cancer, praised the new technology for aiding her recovery journey. “At one point, my eyes were black, my hands dry, and I was in chemotherapy. But with better imaging and care, today I am healthy,” she said.
Sister Ann, a member of the Congregation of the Missionary Sisters of the Holy Rosary, emphasized the importance of early screening. “I had no signs or symptoms, but a routine checkup revealed a tumor. Early detection saved my life,” she said.
She urged Kenyans to prioritize annual medical checkups, reminding them that “cancer is not a death sentence.”With this groundbreaking development, Kenya strengthens its position as a regional hub for advanced cancer care, offering patients new hope without the need to seek treatment abroad.
