The annual report of the Euratom Supply Agency (ESA) warns that the EU's reliance on Russian imports in the medical radioisotope supply chain could have significant consequences. The report states that this dependence threatens the EU's position in production and the development and application of nuclear medicine products and procedures. The report highlights the need for an increasing variety and volume of enriched isotopes for radionuclide production, particularly for the development of new cancer treatments. In addition, enriched isotopes sourced from Russia are needed to develop alternatives to the most commonly used radionuclide, technetium-99m (Tc-99m). The ESA emphasizes that if Europe cannot ensure the provision of nuclear materials such as high-assay low-enriched uranium (Haleu) after 2035, the production of medical radioisotopes is at risk. The ESA suggests various options for securing Haleu supply in the EU, including continued imports from the US and Russia, establishing an ESA Haleu bank, or achieving autonomy through European production. However, all options require clear political decisions and investment from the EU, member states, industries, and end users. The report calls for exploration of all options to ensure EU autonomy and the continued supply of Haleu for medical and research purposes.
Tue, 24 Oct 2023 09:02:33 GMT | NucNet