WE‐C‐224‐03: Medical Physics in Senegal: Status and Prospects

Abstract

Senegal is one of the leading economies in the western sub‐Saharan region. Still, first‐class radiological equipments are lacking in the country. Radiation treatments are still done with 60Co sources and only a few x‐ray machines with limited capabilities are available for diagnostic imaging. This situation is compounded by maintenance issues that are not always easily overcome, due to lack of adequate funds devoted to this aspect of the running of a medical infrastructure. On the other hand, specialized personnel are also needed, in particular medical physicists. The situation has a serious impact on the health care of patients in this country.An ongoing effort to establish in Senegal an international interdisciplinary center is expected to contribute in solving the many issues existing in the field of medical physics. Indeed, the center will offer a strong medical physics component, with diagnosis and treatment tools as well as educational programs aimed at providing the basis for the improvement of health care.This communication will present the current status of medical physics in Senegal together with the interdisciplinary center project and its impact in health care in this country and beyond, in particular in Western Africa.