Speaking at the inauguration of the first cancer diagnosis and treatment center for children at Hakim Children’s Hospital, Eslami said the AEOI considers its activities in healthcare and food security both a responsibility and an honor in advancing the country’s development.
He said Iran has maintained progress in nuclear science despite “all the pressures, sanctions, threats and even attacks” against its nuclear program, as well as allegations and campaigns targeting the country’s nuclear activities.
Eslami said the AEOI has sought to develop Iran’s radiopharmaceutical portfolio to a level comparable with leading countries. “Around 78 products are currently being continuously produced and supplied,” he said, adding that more than 20 other products are undergoing research and will be added to the portfolio after completing the necessary stages.
He also highlighted Iran’s ability to compete with advanced countries in some medical treatment fields, saying the country has continued advancing in this area even under difficult circumstances.
Turning to nuclear technology’s role in prevention, healthcare and food security, Eslami said the AEOI is focusing on using nuclear technology in agriculture and food processing. He noted that Iran produces around 130 million tons of agricultural products annually, some of which are lost due to spoilage or the presence of pests and pesticide residues, imposing economic and health costs.
The AEOI chief said Iran has therefore sought to expand the use of irradiation technologies, including radiation generators, gamma systems, accelerators, microwave systems and plasma processing.
He added that several facilities across Iran are already using gamma technology to irradiate agricultural products, saying further development of the technology can increase their shelf life and productivity and ultimately have positive effects on household incomes and public health.