PAHO/WHO Suriname Health System and Services Advisor Dr. Rosmond Adams, and Radiographers during the one-week Digital Mammography Training in the Academic Hospital Paramaribo
Suriname, November 28, 2022 (PAHO) – The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Suriname conducted a one-week mammography training for Radiologist and Radiographers in Suriname at the Academic Hospital Paramaribo (AZP) during 21 to 24 November 2022. During the training, four Radiologists and seven radiographers received hands-on training on the advanced application of digital mammography.
As a screening tool, mammography has led to earlier diagnosis and reductions in breast cancer mortality. There is a clear correlation between the stage at diagnosis and the overall survival or outcome. Organized screening programs with mammography have led to earlier diagnosis and thus reductions in breast cancer mortality. Because of the importance of mammography in more accurately diagnosing breast cancer, particularly in earlier stage cancers, and reducing its high mortality rate in women, it is essential that all mammograms be performed and interpreted with the highest possible quality standards.
The one-week comprehensive training focused on advanced application of digital mammography with a focus on Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT). DBT is a new application of digital mammography. It is a three-dimensional technology that provides thin cross-sectional images through the breast. This technology is designed to prevent overlying structures from obscuring breast masses and intersecting normal structures from being falsely identified as a cancer.
PAHO/WHO Suriname Health System and Services Advisor Dr. Rosmond Adams mentioned "We provided technical support for a week of hands-on training in digital Mammography and to build capacity at the department at the Academic Hospital, in cooperation with the Ministry of Health in Suriname. The local radiographers were able to learn hands-on, from facilitators from the Netherlands how to improve their practical skills."
The early detection for breast cancer, linked to appropriate and timely treatment, can significantly reduce mortality. Therefore, mammography is the most effective proven imaging technology for breast cancer screening and is also used as a diagnostic tool for symptomatic patients or those with a positive screening mammogram.
Breast cancer remains one of the leading causes of mortality among women in Suriname. The Ministry of Health is working to increase awareness, screening, and treatment services for breast cancer.
"We are very grateful to the PAHO that we received the training from 2 professionals, namely a radio-diagnostic lab technician and a radiologist, from the Netherlands. The device has many options according to the latest guidelines within Europe. It was very interesting, refreshing learning new techniques and tips & tricks" mentioned a local AZP radiologist, who took part in the training.
