The use of nuclear technology in medicine, particularly to fight cancer and to diagnose diseases, has become one of the most widespread uses of nuclear energy. Many countries work with the IAEA to use nuclear technology toward achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3 on Good Health and Well-being for ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages.
Nuclear techniques play an important role in diagnosing and treating various health conditions, in particular non-communicable diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases, and also play a role in diagnosing and combating malnutrition (read more about malnutrition, nuclear science, and SDG2). Nuclear and nuclear-derived techniques can also be used for early warning, risk reduction and management of major health hazards, including infectious diseases, such as Ebola, dengue, and Zika.
To help achieve the SDG 3 target of reducing deaths from non-communicable diseases by one third, the IAEA assists countries in tackling cancer by helping them to educate and train specialized health professionals, develop comprehensive cancer control programmes, and establish nuclear medicine, radiation therapy and oncology and radiology facilities. This includes providing training and education on safety and radiation protection of patients and health professionals during medical procedures involving the use of radiation.