RSNA and GE HealthCare Partner to Enhance Breast Cancer Detection in Tanzania The Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) and GE HealthCare (Nasdaq: GEHC) have announced a joint initiative aimed at bolstering breast cancer detection in Tanzania. Their collaboration focuses on providing cutting-edge mammography technology, training, and educational resources to radiologists at Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH), which serves Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s largest city. This effort seeks to improve access to screening and reduce the country’s high breast cancer mortality rate.
Despite breast cancer being the second leading cause of cancer mortality in Tanzania, MNH lacked a functional mammography machine. Over 80% of diagnoses occur at advanced stages, significantly reducing long-term survivability rates. Additionally, the country has a high lifetime risk of developing breast cancer, with approximately half of diagnosed women succumbing to the disease.
To address this challenge, RSNA’s Global Learning Center (GLC) program, supported by a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), collaborates with institutions like Muhimbili University of Health and Sciences (MUHAS). Through this program, a team of RSNA members partners with MUHAS over three years to develop tailored educational curricula and provide hands-on training and online resources.
As part of the collaboration, GE HealthCare will install the Pristina Mammography Suite at MUHAS, which includes advanced imaging technologies. Approximately twenty healthcare professionals will receive comprehensive training covering system operation, image interpretation, patient care, and more. Upon completion, participants will receive certification from GE HealthCare.
Beyond enhancing radiologic practice, this collaboration aims to raise awareness about breast cancer screening and early detection among Tanzanians. Jan Makela, President and CEO of Imaging at GE HealthCare, emphasizes their commitment to reducing healthcare disparities and improving access to innovative imaging technologies.
Since its inception, the RSNA GLC program has expanded to several countries, including Tanzania. Umar Mahmood, M.D., Ph.D., Chair of the RSNA Board of Directors, underscores the importance of international collaborations in advancing radiology education and improving patient care.
To mark this collaboration, GE HealthCare and RSNA will participate in the unveiling of the breast center at Muhimbili National Hospital. For more information about MNH, visit mnh.or.tz.
