Riyadh, December 21, 2023, Yesterday, the King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSH&RC) celebrated the 40th anniversary of its Cyclotron and Radiopharmaceuticals Department, a significant milestone in the institution's commitment to healthcare advancement. Recognized globally as a hub for education, training, and research, this department has earned accreditation from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and currently fulfills approximately 70% of Saudi Arabia's demand for radioactive pharmaceuticals.
The commemorative event, held at KFSH&RC's headquarters in Riyadh, saw the presence of Dr. Majid Al Fayyadh, the CEO of KFSH&RC, according to a press release issued by the institution.
Since its establishment in 1983, the Cyclotron and Radiopharmaceuticals Department has produced over 650,000 doses of 30 different types of diagnostic and therapeutic radioactive pharmaceuticals. These products support 50 specialized centers across Saudi Arabia, effectively meeting 70% of the nation's demand. KFSH&RC is now aspiring to elevate its supply capacity to cover 90% of the demand, ultimately striving for self-sufficiency in radioactive pharmaceuticals within the country.
Dr. Al Fayyadh expressed his thoughts on this significant achievement, stating, "This milestone reflects the dedication of our team, the vision of our institution, and our firm pursuit of advancing healthcare. Together, we navigate the future with a collective determination to redefine possibilities and elevate medical standards for the well-being of our community."
The commemorative event commenced with a film showcasing the inception of the Cyclotron and Radiopharmaceuticals Department. It highlighted the historic installation of the inaugural cyclotron in 1978, powered by a 26 Mega Electron Volts proton beam (CS-30). Attendees also had the opportunity to engage with an interactive exhibition that deepened their understanding of cyclotron production, radioactive pharmaceuticals, and their diverse medical applications.
To maintain its ambitious goals, the department enforces stringent quality control standards through an integrated product quality control and management unit. Adhering to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), national standards set by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), the Nuclear and Radiological Regulatory Commission (NRRC), international standards (Quality Management System QMS), and ISO 9001 specifications, these control measures in operational processes ensure periodic material evaluations for sustained validity. This commitment to quality maintenance solidifies the department's reputation for reliable production.
KFSH&RC, recognized as one of the leading institutions in tertiary healthcare globally, is acclaimed for its innovation, advanced medical research, and education center. The institution actively collaborates with prominent local, regional, and international partners to develop medical technologies and elevate healthcare standards worldwide, aiming to provide world-class service in the clinical, research, and educational fields.
