Wider use of genome sequencing and nuclear medicine could advance cancer care.
File photo of Science and Technology Secretary Md Anwar Hossain. Photo: Courtesy
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File photo of Science and Technology Secretary Md Anwar Hossain. Photo: Courtesy
Bangladesh has the potential to emerge as a world-class regional hub for advanced cancer diagnosis and treatment by better utilising genome sequencing, precision medicine and nuclear medicine technologies, Science and Technology Secretary Md Anwar Hossain has said.
“Despite having adequate facilities for genome sequencing in the country, their potential is not being utilised properly. In the near future, Bangladesh has the potential to emerge as a world-class regional hub through the introduction of advanced diagnostic facilities and customised healthcare services,” he said.
He made the remarks as the chief guest at the inaugural ceremony of a training programme titled ‘Training Course on PET-CT and Cyclotron’ at the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission (BAEC) headquarters in Agargaon, Dhaka, today (14 November).
The secretary stressed the need to harness the potential of precision medicine and genome sequencing for cancer diagnosis and treatment, saying their wider application could create new opportunities for the country’s healthcare sector.
He also underscored the importance of leveraging the expertise of young professionals and skilled medical practitioners to expand research into drug discovery and industrial development, alongside preventive and precision medicine.
With proper planning and adherence to international protocols, Bangladesh could develop world-class healthcare services and manufacture medicines at lower costs for domestic consumption and export to international markets, he said.
Hossain added that the training programme would enhance the professional skills of young doctors and researchers and help advance the application of nuclear medicine technology in the country’s healthcare sector.
The programme was chaired by Dr Mahfuza Khan, member (bioscience) of the BAEC, while Commission Chairman Dr M Moinul Islam attended as the special guest.
A welcome address was delivered by A S M Habib Ullah Khan, director of the BAEC’s Human Resource Development Department.
The keynote paper was presented by Professor Dr Zinat Jabin, director of the Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS) at Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital.
A total of 34 participants are attending the training programme, which will continue until 25 November 2026.
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