Cancer patients are continuously increasing in the country. Currently, 106 people per lakh suffer from this chronic complex disease. In fact, 12 percent of the total deaths in the country are due to cancer. Most of the affected people are low and middle-income people. Apart from the country's only specialized cancer hospital, there is a separate department in the divisional medical center, but it is insufficient compared to the patients. As a result, a large part of them go abroad.
In Bangladesh, cancer diagnosis and treatment are very expensive in the conventional system. In this case, it is possible to revolutionize cancer treatment through theranostics, which is part of precision medicine like developed countries including Europe, said renowned Japanese researcher Dr. Shuichi Shiratori. He said, 'With this method, it is possible to accurately diagnose cancer in the right place. At the same time, it is possible to fully recover from treatment.'
He said these things in an exclusive interview with Amar Desh in Gulshan on Thursday afternoon. The interview was conducted by staff reporter Azadul Adnan.
Dr. Shiratori has been working on cancer therapy in Japan and Thailand for 20 years. He is currently serving as an associate professor in the radiology department of Siriraj Hospital, a government institution in Thailand. The medical scientist said that if the government wants, he will train doctors in Bangladesh in this regard.
Dr. Shiratori recently visited Bangladesh. He was the keynote speaker at the 4th International Medical Physics in Radiation Oncology and Imaging Conference held at BRAC University. During the event, he spoke in detail about the transformative potential of nuclear medicine and theranostics in cancer treatment.
Dr. Shiratori said, "Theranstix is an innovative approach that combines diagnostic imaging and targeted therapy using radiopharmaceuticals. The primary goal of Theranstix is to specifically target and destroy cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissue. By identifying cancer biomarkers through imaging, Theranstix allows for the precise application of radiation therapy, leading to more effective treatment outcomes with fewer side effects."
When asked about the impact of precision medicine in cancer treatment, Dr. Shiratori said, "Precision medicine has revolutionized cancer treatment. Because it tailors treatment based on the patient's genetic and molecular profile. This approach not only increases the effectiveness of therapy, but also reduces adverse side effects. It has shown remarkable success in prostate cancer treatment in particular."
On the challenges of implementing precision medicine and theranostics, he said, "Despite the potential, there are several challenges in adopting precision medicine and theranostics. These include high costs, limited infrastructure, and lack of specialized training. Regulatory barriers and quality control also pose significant obstacles. However, Dr. Shiratori believes that it is possible to overcome the barriers through international cooperation, especially with organizations such as the International Atomic Energy Agency."
Expressing hope that the future of cancer treatment will change, he said, "Theranostics will become a game changer for cancer management in the future. However, he acknowledged that achieving this goal will require sustained investment in research, infrastructure development and training. International cooperation is crucial to make these advanced treatments more accessible and affordable."
He also said that there is a significant difference between nuclear medicine and conventional cancer treatment in this method. The doctor said, "Conventional cancer treatment usually involves surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, which often come with significant side effects and uncertainty about the patient's survival. In contrast, nuclear medicine uses theranostics targeted radiopharmaceuticals to specifically target cancer cells, leaving healthy cells intact. This method not only improves the effectiveness of the treatment, but also reduces side effects, providing patients with a better quality of life."
When asked about the global acceptance of Theranostix, the experienced doctor and researcher said, "Theranostix is gaining acceptance worldwide. It is already approved in Europe, the United States, Japan, and Australia. Thailand has already included it in its approved cancer treatment."
When asked about theranostics and its potential in Bangladesh, Dr. Shiratori said, "Bangladesh has the potential to transform cancer treatment through nuclear medicine and theranostics. Although the country's healthcare infrastructure is strong, the key to success is changing the mindset of healthcare professionals and providing them with the necessary training. Collaboration with countries already experienced in theranostics will be essential in bringing this advanced treatment to Bangladesh."
Expressing some skepticism about the affordability, Dr. Shiratori said, "Although the initial cost of Theranostics may be high, it may be a viable cost-effective option given the long-term benefits of reduced side effects and improved survival rates."
Urging Bangladeshi healthcare professionals to embrace nuclear medicine and theranostics in Bangladesh, Dr. Shiratori stressed on training, collaboration, and a clear understanding of the concepts to successfully implement these advanced treatments.
Dr. Shuichi Shiratori's visit to Bangladesh can be considered a significant step towards the adoption of cutting-edge cancer treatment in the country. His insights into theranostics in nuclear medicine show hope for a future where cancer patients can receive more effective, personalized, and non-invasive treatments. With continued investment and international collaboration, Bangladesh can become a leader in nuclear medicine and theranostics in the region.
