Apparently, the Cobalt-60 cancer machine for radiotherapy services, which arrived at Mulago national referral hospital on Wednesday is not the best for cancer patients since it uses old technology, has many side effects and treats fewer patients per day.
“Cobalt 60 technology was first discovered in 1949…. Cobalt 60 technology has challenges with disposal of radioactive waste, which must be managed by a health sector to avoid side effects,” Dr Ekwaro Obuku, the general secretary of the Uganda Medical Association told The Observer.
According to The Observer, Dr Jackson Orem, the executive director of the Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI), balked at this argument, saying the new machine has modern technology and is safe.
“This is a very good machine with modern technology and good service. We also know how to handle the wastes. That is why on the site, here, we have our temporary depository to keep waste securely awaiting for repatriation,” The Observer reported.