Aga Khan University Hospital introduces AI-enabled TrueBeam radiotherapy system

KENYA—Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi has introduced a cutting-edge AI-enabled TrueBeam Radiotherapy System, marking a significant advancement in cancer care across East Africa.

The technology delivers highly precise radiation treatment with sub-millimeter accuracy, enabling doctors to target tumors more effectively while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

The new system represents a major step forward in addressing Kenya’s growing cancer burden.

According to Prof Abdulrazak Shaukat, Principal Secretary for Science, Research and Innovation, the country records approximately 42,000 new cancer cases annually.

He emphasized that access to quality treatment remains a critical challenge for many Kenyans seeking care.

Bridging the Treatment Gap Through Innovation

Prof. Shaukat noted that strong partnerships and technological innovation play crucial roles in strengthening health systems.

He stressed that such collaborations advance precision medicine capabilities, ultimately benefiting local populations who previously had limited access to specialized cancer treatments.

The TrueBeam system offers versatility in treating various cancer types, including breast, prostate, cervical, lung, brain, liver, and spinal tumors.

Additionally, the technology accommodates pediatric cancer patients, who require particularly delicate and precise treatment approaches.

Transforming cancer care across Sub-Saharan Africa

Rashid Khalani, CEO of Aga Khan University Hospital Nairobi, expressed pride in the institution’s role as a healthcare innovation leader.

He highlighted how the new system contributes to transforming cancer care throughout Sub-Saharan Africa by expanding access to specialized services that were previously unavailable or required patients to seek treatment abroad.

The hospital’s investment in this technology reflects its broader commitment to serving patients beyond Kenya’s borders.

Many individuals from neighboring countries travel to Nairobi seeking advanced medical treatments, and the TrueBeam system strengthens the facility’s position as a regional cancer care hub.

Enhanced treatment with fewer side effects

Dr Angela Waweru, Section Head of Radiotherapy at the hospital, explained the clinical advantages of the new technology.

She noted that TrueBeam allows medical teams to deliver radiation with unprecedented precision, carefully minimizing exposure to nearby organs and healthy tissue.

This precision translates into tangible benefits for patients undergoing treatment.

Dr Waweru emphasized that the targeted approach reduces common side effects associated with traditional radiotherapy, such as fatigue, skin irritation, and damage to surrounding organs.

Furthermore, the advanced technology enables faster recovery times, allowing patients to return to their daily lives more quickly.

The system also reduces the total number of radiotherapy sessions required for effective treatment.

Patients benefit from shorter treatment courses, which means fewer hospital visits and reduced overall treatment duration.

This milestone reinforces Aga Khan University Hospital’s ongoing commitment to expanding access to world-class cancer care throughout the region, bringing hope to thousands of patients facing cancer diagnoses each year.