UKZN International Award for Innovative Prostate Cancer Therapy

UKZN International Award for Innovative Prostate Cancer Therapy. Professor Mariza Vorster, Head of Nuclear Medicine at UKZN, has been honored with the Maurits W. Geerlings 2024 Next Generation Award for her remarkable contributions to Actinium-225 Radiopharmaceuticals.

This prestigious accolade, presented by the International Centers for Precision Oncology Foundation (ICPO), recognizes her pioneering work in bringing Ac225 Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) therapy to the province of KwaZulu-Natal, particularly at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital in Durban.

Read Also: UKZN Status Check Online

Innovative Prostate Cancer Therapy

Prostate cancer is a prevalent malignancy affecting men worldwide. Professor Vorster’s Ac225 PSMA therapy represents a breakthrough in cancer treatment. This radionuclide therapy targets cancer cells with alpha particles, effectively damaging tumor DNA and impeding further growth.

Notably, the therapy selectively acts on cancer cells while sparing normal tissues, resulting in minimal side effects for patients.

Academic and Professional Achievements

Professor Vorster, a distinguished nuclear medicine physician, obtained her doctoral degree from the University of Pretoria in 2014. With over 100 peer-reviewed publications to her credit, she is a renowned figure in her field.

Her commitment to advancing nuclear medicine extends beyond research; she actively promotes training programs and collaborates internationally to enhance healthcare infrastructure and expertise.

Conclusion

Professor Vorster receipt of the Maurits W. Geerlings Award underscores her significant contributions to oncological research and patient care. Her vision to cultivate a cadre of skilled professionals and expand nuclear medicine services reflects her dedication to improving healthcare access and outcomes in South Africa.

Her achievements exemplify the spirit of innovation and collaboration, paving the way for transformative advancements in cancer therapy.

FAQS: UKZN International Award for Innovative Prostate Cancer Therapy

Q1: What is Ac225 PSMA therapy At UKZN?

Ans: Ac225 PSMA therapy is an innovative treatment for prostate cancer, utilizing alpha particles to target and destroy cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.

Q2: Who is UKZN Professor Mariza Vorster?

Ans: Professor Mariza Vorster is the Head of Nuclear Medicine at UKZN and a leading figure in the field of oncological research, particularly in the development of Ac225 PSMA therapy.

Q3: How does Ac225 PSMA therapy benefit patients?

Ans: Ac225 PSMA therapy offers effective cancer treatment with minimal side effects, providing hope for patients with prostate cancer by selectively targeting tumor cells while preserving healthy tissue.