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The only radiotherapy machine in Mozambique is out of order; cancer patients undergoing ‘alternative treatment ‘- Notícias
1:41 CAT | 21 Nov 2024
File photo: Notícias
Maputo Central Hospital (HCM) is resorting to alternative treatment for its around 1,000 cancer patients, while the damaged part of its one radiotherapy machine, out of order since September, remains un-replaced.
The damaged machine is the only one of its type available in a public hospital in the entire country. ‘Notícias’ has learned that the replacement part has been ordered, and is expected to be installed soon.
Tânia Manhique, a resident of Zambézia province, travelled to Maputo after being diagnosed with breast cancer, hoping to obtain better medical care and comprehensive services.
However, after surgery, she was informed that the radiotherapy machine was broken and that her sole option was chemotherapy, a treatment that she says weakens her, causing nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
“If it weren’t for the distance and lack of money, I could be treated in South Africa,” Tania said.
António Bila, 69, diagnosed with a cancerous growth on his forehead, was supposed to start radiotherapy treatment in the second half of 2024. However, after more than five months of waiting, he learned that he would only be able to have chemotherapy.
His hope was to undergo both treatments, since, according to him, they are complementary.
“It’s difficult to live with the pain and without the hope of improvement due to lack of resources,” he said.
Director of Radiotherapy Services at HCM, Morais Gudo, explained to Notícias that, when the fault was detected, replacement parts were ordered from Germany. They are now in South Africa, from where they will soon be sent to Mozambique.
Until the radiotherapy machine is operating again, patients will be offered chemotherapy treatment, where appropriate.
Source: Notícias
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