Fujifilm and IAEA Sign Practical Arrangements to Strengthen Cancer Care through Medical Imaging Technology and Human Resource Development

Fujifilm and IAEA Sign Practical Arrangements to Strengthen Cancer Care through Medical Imaging Technology and Human Resource Development FUJIFILM Corporation today announced that it has entered into Practical Arrangements (PA) with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) aimed at strengthening the foundations of cancer care through medical imaging technology and human resource development. This agreement aims to support the development of healthcare systems that enable early detection and support diagnosis of cancer, primarily in low- and middle-income countries, under the IAEA’s global cancer initiative, “Rays of Hope”. Specifically, the cooperation is aimed to promote improvements in the quality and accessibility of healthcare through awareness campaigns highlighting the importance of medical imaging and quality assurance in cancer care, the implementation of education and training programs for healthcare professionals, and the provision of Fujifilm’s medical equipment and software. Additionally, Fujifilm will collaborate with the IAEA’s educational and clinical hubs (Anchor Centers) established in various countries, to strengthen and expand the capacity in order to conduct critical work more effectively together. The company also aim to work on implementing training programs for physicians and radiologic technologists. Furthermore, Fujifilm may cooperate in research activities in the field of medical imaging and initiatives that contribute to improving diagnostic accuracy, thereby contributing to the establishment of sustainable cancer care systems. From right: Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA); Teiichi Goto, President and Chief Executive Officer, FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation. Worldwide, many regions still lack access to early detection, appropriate diagnosis, and treatment of cancer due to shortages of medical equipment and specialized personnel. For over 60 years, the IAEA has supported countries in strengthening their cancer care systems as an international organization in radiation medicine, and in recent years has accelerated its efforts through the “Rays of Hope” initiative. Fujifilm has been providing medical equipment, such as mammography systems, and conducting training activities around the world. In the current fiscal year, with the support of the IAEA, Fujifilm’s mammography systems are scheduled to be introduced at medical institutions in 26 countries in Africa. Building on its experience and expertise in addressing healthcare challenges and local needs in emerging countries, Fujifilm will continue to contribute to advancing cancer care worldwide. “We consider it our important mission to contribute to solving global healthcare challenges through our business, based on our technologies and global track record in the medical field,” said Teiichi Goto, President and CEO, FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation, Japan. “Through this cooperation with the IAEA, we find it highly meaningful that we can contribute to strengthening early detection and diagnostic systems for cancer from both perspectives of medical imaging technology and human resource development. Going forward, we will continue to meet the diverse needs of healthcare settings, improve examination efficiency and the quality of medical care, and thereby contribute to maintaining and improving people’s health worldwide.” “We welcome the opportunity to collaborate with Fujifilm under this PA to strengthen cancer care in countries where access to diagnostic imaging and trained professionals remains limited,” said Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General, IAEA. “Through the Rays of Hope initiative, the IAEA is working to expand access to cancer services, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. By combining Fujifilm’s expertise in medical imaging and training with the IAEA’s global network, we will further accelerate efforts to enhance early detection and accurate diagnosis.” 1 The Rays of Hope initiative is a global cancer control program led by the IAEA that supports the development and strengthening of healthcare systems in radiotherapy and medical imaging, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. It aims to improve the quality and accessibility of cancer diagnosis and treatment through the provision of medical equipment, capacity building, and the promotion of research and innovation, as well as by strengthening the functions of regional anchor centres that serve as core hubs for training and clinical practice.