The African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE), a state-of-the-art tertiary hospital established by Afreximbank in partnership with King’s College Hospital, London, is set to enhance diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities in Africa with the addition of a cyclotron.
This advanced technology was announced during a tour of the AMCE facility in Abuja, providing an update on the hospital’s progress.
What is Cyclotron
A cyclotron is a critical medical imaging device used to diagnose and treat complex conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurological disorders—key areas of AMCE’s specialization. The AMCE will use the cyclotron to produce radiopharmaceuticals, essential for PET-CT scans and other nuclear medicine procedures, offering unprecedented precision in disease detection and treatment planning.
AMCE CEO Brian Deaver highlighted the significance of this development, stating, “The cyclotron facility will not only elevate our diagnostic capabilities but also expand access to cutting-edge treatment options that have historically been inaccessible for most people in Africa.
By producing radiopharmaceuticals in-house, we can ensure the highest quality of care, making a vital difference in saving lives and improving patient outcomes.”
Currently, West Africa has limited access to cyclotron technology, with only one operational in the region. According to a 2023 report by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), most of Africa’s cyclotron facilities are located in North and South Africa, leaving West Africa underserved in advanced diagnostic imaging and radiopharmaceutical production.
The development of AMCE’s facility aims to bridge this gap, providing much-needed access to this advanced technology in West Africa. The cyclotron will also be able to supply radioisotopes to other PET-CT facilities in the region, broadening the reach of these lifesaving tools.
As Africa’s healthcare infrastructure continues to evolve, the AMCE remains dedicated to setting new standards of excellence, with the centre expected to be fully operational by April 2025.