A state-of-the-art nuclear medicine and molecular radiotherapy suite has opened at Weston Park Cancer Centre giving more patients access the latest treatments sooner.
The lead-lined building, which opened last week, will offer high-precision technology to detect, image and treat tumours as well as deliver newly targeted treatments over the next few years.
Consultant Clinical Scientist Anna Hallam said: “This purpose-built suite enables us to offer all our patients access to the latest advances in nuclear medicine diagnostic imaging and the opportunity for cancer patients to access new, exciting treatments sooner.”
The suite will further enhance Sheffield Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust’s reputation as a European Endocrine Tumour Society Centre of Excellence, treating and diagnosing rare neuroendocrine tumours.
Included in the new building are diagnostic and treatment areas, special therapy preparation rooms, and a hybrid SPECTI-CT scanner, providing precise information about how different parts of the body are working and clearly identify problems.
Currently, the department is just one of four dedicated cancer centres in the UK , receiving nearly 60,000 patient visits annually, servicing as the only radiotherapy department in the vicinity of South Yorkshire, North Nottinghamshire, and North Derbyshire.
Mayor of South Yorkshire, Oliver Coppard, attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony to open the suite on 8 March accompanied by former international FIFA and FA football referee, and Weston Park Cancer Charity patron, Uriah Rennie.
The opening was also supported by Weston Park Cancer Charity, following their investment in refurbishing the the brachytherapy and molecular radiotherapy inpatient suite in 2022.
The charity not only funds lifesaving research and trials at the cancer centre, but also offers advice and therapy for those affected by cancer.
Weston Park Cancer charity’s CEO Emma Clarke said: “Weston Park Cancer Charity is delighted to support today’s event which launches these incredible enhancements to the nuclear medicine facility.
“Cancer patients across our region will benefit from these new technologies and future research trials. It’s excellent that we have this state-of-the-art suite at Weston Park Cancer Centre.”
The next fundraiser for the charity will be the Sheffield Half Marathon on 7 April.
