Radiotherapy service in Holguín remains operational
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The radiotherapy service at the Holguín Territorial Oncology Center remains operational with three machines dedicated to treating patients with malignant tumors.
Supported by a preventive maintenance program and coordination between medical physics and electromedical teams, this combination has ensured operational stability over the past two years and allowed the center to continue providing therapy to patients.
According to Samada Liy Marrero, head of the department, teamwork between technical and medical staff has been key to maintaining safety and quality during daily operations. The dedication of a mostly young team further demonstrates their commitment to providing reliable and effective care.
In 2025, more than 20,000 patients received cobalt therapy, helping to reduce waiting times for this type of treatment. This figure reflects the center’s ability to meet high demand and improve efficiency in administering ionizing radiation.
Regarding superficial therapy for nonmelanoma skin tumors, more than 6,000 cases were treated over the past twelve months, highlighting the scope of dermatological oncology care that complements more intensive radiation treatments.
The director emphasized the challenges caused by the tightening of the U.S. economic, commercial, and financial blockade against Cuba, which increases the cost of spare parts and limits access to modern technologies.
The radioactive source alone costs over 16 million dollars, not including the updates needed for optimal operation, adding further financial pressure to the service. (Source: ACN)
