BBC Inside Science
Nuclear medicine shortages and Jane Goodall on COP29
Dec 12, 2024
In this engaging discussion, Jane Goodall, the renowned conservationist and primatologist, reflects on her lifelong work with chimpanzees and the urgent need for climate action as COP29 approaches. Simon Middleborough dives into the alarming shortage of medical isotopes crucial for cancer diagnosis, explaining how aging reactors impact health outcomes. Volcanologist Robin George Andrews tackles the bold idea of disposing of nuclear waste in volcanoes, uncovering its feasibility. This captivating conversation intertwines wildlife conservation with pressing medical and environmental issues.
28:25
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Quick takeaways
- The shortage of medical isotopes necessary for cancer diagnosis highlights the urgent need for improved production methods and infrastructure.
- Jane Goodall underscores the critical importance of local activism in combating climate change and preserving biodiversity during a crucial five-year window.
Deep dives
The Shortage of Medical Isotopes in the UK
Medical isotopes, essential for diagnosing and treating various cancers, are currently in short supply in the UK due to aging nuclear reactors worldwide that are expected to close in the coming years. This shortage stems from unexpected shutdowns for maintenance and the geographical distance of producing reactors, complicating timely deliveries. For instance, a reactor in the Netherlands recently closed, directly impacting approximately 4,000 cancer diagnoses in the UK per month, highlighting the urgency of this issue. As the availability of these vital isotopes diminishes, the potential for increased healthcare costs and risks to patient lives escalates.
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