Help was dispatched in September 2024 following the discovery of two barrels containing radium-226 abandoned at a facility managed by Fiji’s Ministry of Health. This radioactive material, which has a half-life of approximately 1,600 years, poses serious health risks through inhalation, ingestion, or prolonged exposure.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) sent a team to assess the situation and discovered that the barrels had been improperly stored outdoors for nearly a decade, leading to significant corrosion. Fortunately, the radioactive sources were found to be intact, which allowed for a safe recovery operation to commence.
Over the next week, the IAEA, in partnership with the American pharmaceutical company Niowave, undertook the task of securing and transporting the radium-226 out of Fiji. This operation is part of the IAEA’s Global Radium Management Initiative, aimed at responsibly managing disused medical isotopes that were historically used for cancer treatments, including brachytherapy.
The barrels, which were exposed to the elements due to a roofless structure, necessitated detailed assessments to ensure radiation exposure levels remained safe during recovery. Specialized equipment was used to measure radiation levels on the barrels before repackaging the radioactive material into a transport container provided by Niowave.
Following the delicate repackaging process, the transport container was sent to a secured storage area under the Ministry’s oversight in Suva. The final shipment to the United States is planned, where the radium-226 will be recycled into actinium-225, a promising isotope increasingly employed in targeted cancer therapies.
Fiji’s Ministry of Health recognizes the historical significance of radium-226 in cancer treatment, emphasizing the vital importance of managing such materials safely. This operation marks a significant step towards better handling of radioactive substances, showcasing Fiji’s commitment to health and safety while fostering international cooperation for public health advancements. The repurposing of these isotopes not only addresses immediate safety concerns but also enhances potential treatment options for patients in need.
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