New scanner having big effect in tackling cancer
New hi-tech equipment that provides futuristic 3D scans of cancer patients has taken doctors’ ability to diagnose the disease to a new level.
Money for the state-of-the-art PET-CT scanner, which has already helped 5,000 patients, was raised by members of the Bath Cancer Unit Support Group and by people from across Bath and the surrounding area.
“All the unseen charitable work is having a very real effect on patient lives,” said Martyn Evans, who is head of Imaging Physics and Nuclear Medicine at the RUH.
“5,000 patients scanned locally on the PET-CT scanner is a fantastic milestone.
“It has only been made possible due to the great work and generosity of the BCUSG and its supporters.
“On behalf of all those patients and our team, we would like to say an enormous ‘thank you’ to the charity and everyone who donated money.”
A PET-CT scanner combines two technologies: Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and Computerised Tomography (CT) which together paint a very clear picture of how certain parts of the body are working and how cancer develops.
The scanner at the RUH was the first to be permanently installed at an NHS hospital in the South West of England.
Mr Evans added that the PET-CT scanner had made a huge difference to patients locally and improved the accuracy of diagnosis.
BCUSG chairman Mike Taylor said: “We’re really proud that 5,000 patients have been assessed using the PET-CT scanner at the RUH.
“But we now need to fund new technology for the RUH that will help medical staff target treatments more effectively – so our work continues apace.
“As well as individual donations and legacies, we’re also looking for corporate sponsors to help us ensure we can continue our valuable work supporting the RUH cancer unit.”
As part of its fundraising activities, the BCUSG is holding a fun quiz night on Friday, November 19 at the Wesley Road Club in Trowbridge BA14 OAX.
The charity is looking for teams of local people to take part.
Entry costs £5 per team member, with a maximum of six people per team. There will be a bar and raffle. For more information call 0776 8628144.
■ To donate to the Bath Cancer Unit Support Group, or to discuss becoming a corporate partner, please email Alan Webb at fundraising@bcusg.org or phone 07896 741233.