Radiopharmaceutical Innovations for Affordable and Sustainable Cancer Care in India: Advancing SDG 3
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58213/vidhyayana.v10isi3.2251Keywords:
Sustainable Development Goal 3, Radiopharmaceuticals, Lutetium-177 (177Lu), Positron Emission Tomography (PET), Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT)Abstract
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cancer and cardiovascular disorders, pose a significant public health challenge in India, contributing to a growing burden on healthcare systems (Patel & Kumar, 2019). Radiopharmaceuticals, with their dual role in diagnostics and therapy, have emerged as pivotal tools in the fight against NCDs by enabling early detection, precise diagnosis, and targeted treatment (Bailey, Townsend, Valk, & Maisey, 2005). This paper explores recent advancements in radiopharmaceuticals, focusing on their role in providing affordable and sustainable cancer care in India. Key innovations, such as Lutetium-177 (177Lu) and Actinium-225 (225Ac)-based therapies, and novel PET and SPECT imaging tracers, are examined for their transformative impact on patient outcomes (Sharma & Singh, 2020; Kwekkeboom, Kam, & van Essen, 2010).
Despite their promise, barriers such as limited infrastructure, high production costs, and challenges in radioactive waste management impede widespread adoption (Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, 2021). This paper examines strategies to address these challenges, including the establishment of regional production centers, leveraging public-private partnerships (Department of Atomic Energy [DAE], 2020), and adopting green chemistry practices (Green Chemistry Journal, 2022). Furthermore, the role of nuclear medicine in the early detection and treatment of NCDs is highlighted, with a particular focus on theranostics, which integrates diagnostics and therapeutics to advance personalized medicine (Loening & Gambhir, 2003).
By aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being), these innovations demonstrate the potential to revolutionize healthcare in India while minimizing environmental impact (Bhabha Atomic Research Centre [BARC], 2020). This paper concludes with recommendations for policy reforms, sustainable practices, and investments in nuclear medicine infrastructure, emphasizing their importance in achieving India's vision for Viksit Bharat@2047.
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