22 April 2014 | News | By BioSpectrum Bureau
GE Healthcare unveils first PET/CT designed in India
Cancer burden seems to be increasing in developing countries including India
The new Discovery IQ is the result of $15 Million (INR 90 Crores) investment, and 3 years of close collaborative development with Indian nuclear medicine physicians and oncologists.
"Three years back, we promised to develop an advanced yet affordable PET/CT to improve access to early cancer detection. We are extremely proud that we have realized that commitment today with the launch of Discovery IQ that is 40% more affordable and can usher in personalized treatment for the patient. We are extremely thankful to the Indian healthcare providers for their close collaboration and insights into their needs that helped develop this important weapon against cancer", said Ms Terri Bresenham, president & CEO, GE Healthcare South Asia.
The new GE Discovery IQ PET/CT comes with advanced early disease detection capabilities as well as measurements to understand patient's response to cancer treatment.
"Molecular imaging is the epitome of healthcare imaging technologies. GE is very pleased to demonstrate to the world India's capabilities in developing the most sophisticated medical technologies," she added.
"We know that cancer patients don't always respond to their initial course of treatment," said Mr R Suresh Kumar, GM, PET/CT Product Development, GE Healthcare. "If we can give clinicians a more accurate and reliable solution to determine early whether the treatment is working or not, they will be able to tailor a regimen of therapies according to individual patient response and needs."
"Clinicians will now have ready access to tools that will allow evidence based and cost effective treatment. Together with our customers, we are focused on improving access, quality and affordable cancer care for the patient", said Mr N R Balamurugan, director, Oncology, GE Healthcare South Asia.