The treatment of cancer in Africa has just been given a major boost thanks to a joint venture between the University of Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, who have partnered with Varian Medical Systems to bring their international Access to Care training program to Africa.

Launched at Groote Schuur Hospital on the 9th of September, the program is at the leading edge of radiotherapy training globally, using advanced computer technology to create a virtual environment. This provides a safe space for practical training and the implementation of theoretical knowledge, ultimately to the benefit of cancer patients.

Prof Jeannette Parkes, presenting on the key elements of the course and the partnership 

Professor Jeannette Parkes, Head of the Department of Radiation Oncology said that there was a great need for increased access to and capacity building in radiotherapy, given the prediction that by 2030, 70 percent of cancers globally will be in developing countries. The training program will help improve Africa's healthcare infrastructure and aid in the continent’s fight against cancer.

At present, radiotherapy cancer treatment in many African centres is done using simplified techniques.With many centres planning installation of more advanced technology to allow increasingly targeted treatment, the teaching of new skills to existing radiotherapy personnel is critical. The Access to Care program involves hands-on teaching workshops and mentorship programs to these professional teams from across the continent.

The VERT^TM system in action, demonstrating 3D views and life-size visualisations of the anatomy 

To enhance the learning experience, a Varian Eclipse^TM computer laboratory and a Virtual Environment Radiotherapy Training (VERT^TM) system have been installed at Groote Schuur Hospital. The planning laboratory will allow students to use computer software to learn how to create complex radiotherapy treatment plans. Working much like a flight simulator,the VERT system allows visualisation of patient anatomy and the effect of these treatment plans on the patient. The VERT system is the first installation of its kind on the continent.

Professor Andy Beavis, the founder of the VERT system demonstrated the intricacies of the virtual linear accelerator through a typical simulation exercise. By simulating treatment, students are able to test their skills without harming patients. The launch was also attended by the latest cohort of delegates from Zimbabwe and Ghana. Dr Samukeliso Vuma a Radiation Oncologist at Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe extolled the course for upskilling practitioners, particularly since many were only accustomed to 2D technologies. Dr Vuma added that along with the knowledge of advanced radiography methods, she and her colleagues would leave equipped with skills to treat patients accurately and safely.