HCG Debuts State-of-the-Art PET-CT Scan in Kenya, Advancing Cancer Care Frontiers

New HCG PET-CT Scan

In a major milestone for cancer care in Kenya, the HealthCare Global (HCG) Cancer Centre on Friday, April 25, 2025, officially launched the state-of-the-art PET-CT Scan, the first of its kind in East Africa equipped with the Gallium-68 radiotracer.

This cutting-edge technology promises to significantly improve early cancer detection, treatment planning, and patient outcomes, drastically reducing the need for patients to travel abroad for specialized oncology services.

The new HCG PET-CT Scan integrates Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and Computed Tomography (CT), offering a powerful tool for accurately identifying tumors, monitoring treatment response, and evaluating potential cancer recurrence.

It stands out for its high sensitivity and specificity, comprehensive metabolic and anatomical imaging, shorter scan times, and ability to detect multiple cancer types notably prostate, neuroendocrine tumors, fibroblast activation protein (FAPI)-positive cancers, and full-body assessments.

Speaking during the launch, Dr. B.S. Ajai Kumar, Executive Director of HCG, emphasized the centre’s vision to provide world-class oncology care locally.

“We specialize in facing challenges. When others chose to send patients abroad, we decided to bring the world’s best technology here,” Dr. Kumar said. “Our collaboration with MP Shah Hospital and our partners demonstrates a commitment to deliver precision oncology right at Kenya’s doorstep.”

He criticized the practice of sending patients overseas, often through intermediaries, for costly and emotionally taxing treatments. “It’s time to end the turmoil patients face abroad struggling for visas, enduring loneliness, and uncertainty. The best care should be available here, at home,” he stressed.

Dr. Kumar noted that with continuous advancements in oncology every three months, having a local center of excellence is critical. “We did it in India becoming a Harvard case study for five consecutive years for our unmatched quality and now, we are determined to replicate that success in Kenya.”

The HCG facility, he added, already boasts advanced technologies like the linear accelerator for precision radiotherapy, and now, the PET-CT scan will further revolutionize cancer management.

Bhupendra Kumar Bharti, HCG’s Chief Operating Officer, reaffirmed the centre’s focus on minimizing medical tourism.

“In the past, patients had no choice but to travel. Today, we have introduced the Gallium-68 technology, available elsewhere only in South Africa,” Bharti said. “We have already completed over 300 stereotactic radiation plans locally, offering precision treatments comparable to international standards.”

He explained that with the Gallium tracer, HCG can now perform four specialized scans, targeting prostate cancer, neuroendocrine tumors, FAPI-related cancers, and full-body imaging.

“Soon, we plan to roll out up to 14 different radioactive tracers, enhancing diagnosis for even more cancers,” he added.

Importantly, Bharti reassured Kenyans that cost barriers are being addressed. “Through SHA and insurance collaborations, about 90–95 percent of the PET-CT scan cost will be covered. Patients will only contribute a minimal out-of-pocket expense, around 5,000 to 6,000 shillings,” he said.

Breast Cancer Survivor Testimony

Breast Cancer survivor Sister Anne Gadego of missionary from the Holy Rosary Sisters congregation Highlights the emotional toll of cancer and the importance of accessible treatment Sister Anne recounted her personal journey:

“I had no symptoms. During a routine wellness checkup, screening detected a lump. I was carrying a cancerous tumor without knowing. Early detection saved my life.”

Diagnosed with early-stage invasive ductal carcinoma, Sister Anne underwent surgery, radiotherapy at HCG, and regular follow-ups. Today, she is cancer-free and an advocate for local treatment.

“My world crashed at diagnosis I thought it was a death sentence. But cancer is treatable, especially with early detection. HCG journeyed with me their doctors, nurses, and support groups became family,” she said emotionally.

Sister Anne urged Kenyans to embrace local healthcare facilities: “You don’t have to travel to India. I was diagnosed and treated right here. The new PET-CT scan will make detection even more precise. Please go for your annual checkups. Cancer can affect anyone.”

Both Dr. Kumar and Bharti called for unity among healthcare providers, emphasizing trust and collaboration as keys to success.“With teamwork, trust, and innovation, we can build a center of excellence that matches the best hospitals globally. Money is secondary our mission is patient-centered care,” Dr. Kumar said.

The HCG launch marks a significant leap for Kenya in cancer diagnosis and treatment, ushering in a new era where world-class oncology care is no longer an expensive journey abroad, but a reality at home.

Call to Action

HCG invites the public, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders to celebrate this pivotal moment in cancer care.