Unlike traditional imaging machines that simply detect the anatomical location and size of a tumor, PET imaging captures molecular activity that indicates the rapid growth of a tumor.

PET and CT (computed tomography) scans are often used simultaneously to gather information about both the anatomical location and metabolic activity within the tumor, providing a comprehensive assessment of the body's internal condition.

Dr. Le Ngoc Ha, Head of the Department of Nuclear Medicine at the 108 Military Central Hospital, stated that GE Healthcare's breakthrough PET/CT technology allows for the detection of the smallest lesions, thereby identifying early signs of cancer progression and treatment response.

Additionally, this new technology helps doctors detect early recurrences and metastases for the most effective treatment of cancer patients. By using PET/CT early in the treatment process, doctors can determine whether the treatment is effective and compatible with the patient, and develop the most effective treatment regimens.

According to data from the National Cancer Hospital, breast cancer is currently the most common cancer among Vietnamese women, followed by stomach and lung cancer. From 1988 to 2007, the number of cancer cases in women increased 50-fold.

During this same period, the incidence of prostate cancer in men in Vietnam has also been reported to gradually increase. Liver cancer is also receiving attention from the public and health officials.

These types of cancers greatly benefit from the support of PET/CT technology for accurate diagnosis and effective disease management. However, there are currently only four hospitals in Vietnam equipped with PET/CT machines: Cho Ray Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Duc Hospital, the 108 Military Central Hospital, and Bach Mai Hospital in Hanoi.

The cost of a PET/CT scan in Vietnam is around 22-26 million VND. While this cost is not high compared to other countries in the region, it poses a significant challenge for patients in Vietnam.

Therefore, according to Dr. Ha, consideration should be given to supporting economically disadvantaged patients in accessing this new technology. This would greatly benefit not only the patients but also society as a whole.