U.S. Mission to International Organizations in Vienna
Vienna, Austria
September 22, 2020
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
U.S. funding to IAEA Supports Cancer Treatment in Libya
The U.S. Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) is allocating $200,000 in funding to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to enhance radiotherapy services in Libya. This funding is part of a much larger effort by the United States to improve the lives of people around the world by funding projects that further the peaceful uses of nuclear technologies through the IAEA.
Cancer is one of the major health problems in Libya and 80% of cancer patients need radiotherapy in the course of their treatment. This project is part of the IAEA’s Technical Cooperation Program and will increase the Libyan people’s access to sustainable cancer treatment services and assist Libya in improving its cancer management program. Funding for this project will restore and upgrade the existing radiotherapy facilities in Libya and train medical professionals working in the field of medical physics and radiation oncology.
Due to its expertise in the peaceful uses of nuclear technologies and its relationships with experts around the world, the IAEA plays an important role in addressing issues related to radiotherapy equipment maintenance and training. Meanwhile, NNSA’s Office of Radiological Security works with domestic and international partners in more than 80 countries to enhance the security of high-activity radioactive sources and promote the adoption and development of alternative technologies.
As the IAEA plays a central role in providing support to Member States upon their request, NNSA is working in partnership with the IAEA to provide support to projects like this one that will help address radiation therapy needs and increase access to sustainable treatment services.
More information on the IAEA and on technical cooperation issues under https://www.iaea.org/services/technical-cooperation-programme
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