TITLE:
Assessment of Knowledge, Practices, and Needs Regarding Positron Emission Tomography (PET) in Senegal
AUTHORS:
Kamara Ndeye Lama, Soumboundou Mamadou, Gogon Bogbe Douo Louis Huberson, Mane Maïmouna, Diagne Magatte, N’Guessan Kojio Joel Fabrice, Bathily El Hadji Amadou Lamine, Sakho Ibrahima
KEYWORDS:
Nuclear Medicine, Molecular Imaging, Positron Emission Tomography (PET), Radiotracers
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Radiology,
Vol.16 No.1,
January
26,
2026
ABSTRACT: Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is an advanced nuclear medicine imaging modality that plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and follow-up of oncological, neurological, and cardiovascular diseases. In Senegal, the absence of PET infrastructure restricts access to molecular imaging and limits the integration of this technology into clinical practice. To better understand the needs and potential for PET implementation, this study assessed the knowledge, potential uses, and expectations of Senegalese healthcare professionals. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 120 practitioners across Senegal using a structured questionnaire addressing their knowledge, practices, and perceptions. Descriptive statistical analyses were performed to identify major trends. The study population was predominantly male (74%), with a sex ratio of 2.9. It consisted mainly of physicians (65.8%) and pharmacists (30.8%). Most respondents were familiar with the principles of PET and the role of radiotracers (82.5%), with [¹⁸F]-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) being the most frequently cited (45.8%). Only 11.7% had previously been prescribed PET scans. Interest in PET was particularly high in oncology, especially for the management of digestive (54.2%), pulmonary (49.2%), and urological (47.5%) cancers. Although major barriers such as the lack of infrastructure and the high cost of examinations were identified, the Dakar region was considered the most suitable location for establishing a national radiotracer production facility and PET center. These findings highlight a strong interest and structured demand for PET imaging in Senegal. Establishing a national radiotracer production center and training qualified professionals are key steps toward introducing this technology. Female participation in the field could be enhanced through awareness and training initiatives in nuclear medicine.