Nuclear Medicine Europe
Activity Report 2023
From the Middle of our Term
Word of the Nuclear Medicine President
Dear Colleagues,
As we conclude the year 2023 and reach the midpoint of our 2022-2025 term, on behalf of my Colleagues of the Executive Committee, I like to use this opportunity to reflect on our current status, the progress of our projects, and the commitments we have made to our members.
The flagship project of our 2023, the EU events, has just concluded with great success. However, it is essential to note that the completion of a project marks not the end, but rather the beginning of further endeavors. We are now gathering feedback from European representatives, our target audience this year, and preparing to follow up on their insights. Leveraging the European parliamentary elections of 2024, we see an opportunity to capitalize on their interest in promoting our discipline.
We have seamlessly integrated ourselves into the extensive journey leading to the revision of the Pharma Law, channeling our efforts to ensure that nuclear medicine is duly recognized in its rightful place. It’s a lengthy process; to date, we’ve only succeeded in incorporating the existence of radiopharmaceuticals into the general definitions of Pharma Law. We must persist in our efforts and secure, through the appropriate authorities, the assurance that our industry receives significant recognition in this context. Thanks to the efforts of our Regulatory Affairs and Quality (RA&Q) Working Group and the support of all stakeholders in our association, we hope to overcome this challenge by 2025. We would like to thank as well all the Nuclear Medicine Europe Working Group leaders and participants for their contributions in their individual projects.
This year, we proudly welcomed 7 new members, associate partners, start-ups, and research reactors, bringing a total of 54 members vs.21 members in 2013.
Despite having navigated through the aftermath of the post-Covid restart, the enduring impact of evolving work habits and persistent global political events prompts us to approach the economic landscape with caution.
Our organization requires additional strong and determined administrative and managerial support. We are actively working to ensure we have a responsive team in place oriented towards the challenges we face. Currently, we benefit from the presence of Jocelyne, David, and Guy Turquet, who play a crucial role in shaping our daily operations. I would like to express my gratitude to them for their availability, professionalism, and dedication. Soon, we will be welcoming new talents to assist them in their endeavors.
My colleagues from XCO and I are particularly pleased to reach this mid-term of our triennium by presenting you with such positive results and a future that, although challenging, looks very promising for our discipline and we would like to take this opportunity at the beginning of the year to wish you all success in your professional and personal projects. Not without thanking you for your trust and support.
With best regards,
Mart-Jan Blauwhoff
President Nuclear Medicine Europe
Technical visit of Prague’s nuclear reactor
LVR-15 Research Reactor and UJV Rez PET Centre
Reactor Operators / European Observatory
The European Observatory on the Supply of Medical Radioisotopes held its 19th annual Plenary Meeting in Prague, on March 28 and 29, 2023 with the participation of Nuclear Medicine Europe (NMEU) and the Euratom Supply Agency.
The Observatory members made a technical visit to the LVR-15 Research Reactor and UJV Rez PET Centre, both used for the development and production of new radiopharmaceuticals.
The visit aimed to learn about the facility’s operations and safety measures, and to gain a better understanding of the role that nuclear reactors play in the production of medical isotopes, and in particular the LVR-15 research reactor.
Operated by the Research Centre Řež (CVŘ), the reactor is used for medical radioisotope production, research, and development. Its other operations include irradiating material, corrosion tests of materials of nuclear power plants, water chemistry experiments, producing silicon through neutron doping, neutron capture therapy, measuring textures in semi-crystalline metal materials and neutron interferometry.
European Observatory
on the supply of medical radioisotopes
ESA + NMEU
This year, the European Observatory on the Supply of Medical Radioisotopes convened two significant plenary meetings. The first, the 19th Plenary Meeting, was held on March 28th, 2023, in Prague, Czech Republic. Later in the year, the 20th Plenary Meeting took place on November 21st, 2023, in Karlsruhe, Germany. This latter meeting was graciously hosted by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC), reflecting the ongoing collaboration and commitment of key European entities in the field of medical radioisotopes.
Topics of these meetings were about : the Global Reactor scheduling and Mo-99 supply monitoring, the crisis preparedness and management of shortages for medicinal products and medical devices, updates from the Euratom Supply Agency, Nuclear Medicine Europe, the SAMIRA/ERVI project, the IAEA, the EANM, from the Euratom Research Programmes supporting projects developing HALEU fuels for the production of medical radioisotopes, the JRC activities on supply of medical radioisotopes and the EU programs supporting research on safe use and reliable supply of medical radionuclides.
Nuclear Medecine Europe Selected Industry News
A satisfaction survey
Publication / Communication
This October, we asked the recipients of Nuclear Medicine Europe’s Selected Industry News the simple question : “Are you happy with this service and how can we improve it?”.
In a short survey held for 5 weeks, we tried to see how satisfied the Members were with this service, how we can improve it, and how it must be distributed.
About 20% of the recipients took the time to answer. See below the results :
• Do you READ the NMEU Selected Industry News?
YES, every time : 94,4%
Not all the time : 5,6%
• How happy are you with the CONTENT of the NMEU Selected Industry News?
I am very happy with the content : 88,9%
More content would be great : 5,6%
Others : 5,6%
• How happy are you with the FORMAT of the NMEU Selected Industry News?
I am very happy with the current format, no change needed : 94,4%
I would prefer an online version : 5,6%
• Do you SHARE this newsletter with colleagues or other collaborators?
No, I do not share the newsletter : 17,6%
Yes, I share it but to colleagues only : 76,5%
Yes, I share it to colleagues and collaborators outside my company : 5,9%
• Should this newsletter be sent OUTSIDE the Membership?
No, keep it Members only : 61,1%
Yes, anyone should be able to register to receive this newsletter : 38,9%
• Are you happy with the activity of Nuclear Medicine Europe on Linkedin?
Yes, very happy : 72,2%
• I don’t find it relevant for me : 5,6%
• I don’t follow Nuclear Medicine Europe on Linkedin : 22,2%
TV Shooting at the European Parliament
A short but effective introduction to nuclear medicine
Communication / EU Affairs
Nuclear Medicine Europe members, as industry ambassadors, had the opportunity to participate in a TV segment filmed at the European Parliament. Their aim was to concisely and clearly explain the nuances of nuclear medicine.
Key questions addressed included its nature, safety, future prospects, and ways in which European lawmakers can facilitate improved patient access to healthcare. This special program focused on illuminating these critical aspects of nuclear medicine.
Nuclear Medicine Europe Symposium 2023
As guest of the European Parliament
Communication / EU Affairs
The 2023 Symposium of Nuclear Medicine Europe was notably held at the European Parliament, courtesy of an invitation from MEP Aldo Patriciello. This event, typically a convergence point for experts to share and deliberate on scientific advancements, uniquely catered this year to a predominantly legislative audience, composed of members of the European Parliament and representatives from the European Commission. The symposium’s primary aim was to raise awareness about the vital role of nuclear medicine, spotlighting the industry’s challenges and advocating for a unified European legislative framework to enhance patient care.
A highlight of this symposium was the impactful sharing of a patient’s experience, facilitated through a dialogue with their doctor, Prof. Dr med. Axel Rominger, Director of Nuclear Medicine department, Inselspital, Bern. Nuclear Medicine Europe amplified its advocacy with the support of MEP Maria Da Graça Carvalho, Former Senior Advisor of Commissioner for Research, Science and Innovation, MEP Susanna Ceccardi, Committee on Foreign Affairs, and MEP Tomislav Sokol, Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection SANT, Subcommittee on Public Health, alongside the European Association of Nuclear Medicine (EANM), represented by Prof. Dr Wim J.G. Oyen, Professor of Diagnostic Imaging & Radiotherapy (Humanitas University, Milan,I), Nuclear Medicine Physician (Rijnstate,Arnhem,NL). Chair EANM Policy & Regulatory Affairs Committee. The industry’s key messages were effectively communicated by Nuclear Medecine Europe members Dr med. Jean Bonnet MBA, Head of Strategy, IRE Belgium, Dr med. Germo Gericke, Chief Medical Officer and Head of Research and Development, Ariceum, Germany, Dr Antonis Kalemis, PhD., Head of Collaborations & Physics, Molecular Imaging, EMEA, Siemens Healthineers, and the Executive Committee members, including Nuclear Medicine Europe President Mart-Jan Blauwhoff, and Dr med. Konrade von Bremen, CEO Swan Isotopen.
The voice of the patients has also been represented by Prof. Francesco De Lorenzo, President of the European Cancer Patient Coalition.
To accommodate a wider audience, given the limited physical space, the symposium was also streamed online for members. The event culminated with a tour of the nuclear medicine exhibition (see below), underscoring the symposium’s successful fusion of scientific insight and legislative engagement.
Nuclear Medicine Exhibition at the European Parliament
Raising awareness
Communication / EU Affairs
In 2023, the Nuclear Medicine Europe (NMEU) adeptly organized a week-long exhibition at the European Parliament. The challenge was to enlighten legislators, potentially unfamiliar with “nuclear medicine,” about its impact and efficacy.
The strategy was straightforward yet powerful: presenting FACTS.
Rather than delving into the complexities of radiopharmaceuticals, transportation logistics, therapeutic applications, diagnostic procedures, isotopes, and other specificities of our industry, the focus was shifted to a clear, impactful display of nuclear medicine’s achievements through compelling statistics and proven outcomes. This approach aimed to effectively raise awareness and demonstrate the field’s significance through tangible, real-world results.
These events, which have had a significantly positive impact on both representatives of European institutions, patient associations and stakeholders in nuclear medicine in general, would not have been possible without the intervention of MEP Aldo Patriciello and his team (ITRE/ENVI committees). Since 2016, they have consistently demonstrated a keen interest in our endeavors. We express our heartfelt gratitude to them.
Annual General Meeting
A recap of the year, with new Members
Events / Networking
This year’s General Annual Meeting was held at the prestigious Manos Hotel and the Manos Conference Center in Brussels. The event featured a series of presentations from each of our Working Groups, introduced new Members and Associate Members, and included detailed presentations by the Executive Committee on upcoming projects. Additionally, the meeting provided an overview of the association’s financial health through the fiscal report.
We were honored to host our friends and partners from the European Association of Nuclear Medicine (EANM) and the European Observatory. This annual gathering not only serves as a platform for formal presentations but also as a vital networking opportunity. Members engaged in various side meetings throughout the conference center, fostering collaboration and strengthening professional relationships.
EANM Congress in Vienna
Presence at the European congress
Congresses / Events / Networking
Returning to Vienna, Nuclear Medicine Europe attended the European Association of Nuclear Medicine (EANM) Congress. The association had a dedicated booth for member meetings and networking opportunities.
Additionally, the always popular “Get Together” event was hosted at the Marriott Vienna City Center, offering members a chance to connect outside of the usual meetings.
Expanding Linkedin presence
From Connection to Conversation
Communication
Linkedin followers
Beyond these numbers, it’s crucial to consider the quality of engagement and the profiles of those actively following our activities on this channel. Hospitals, Health Care, Biotech, Pharmaceutical Manufacturing, Medical Practice and Equipment represent 59,5% of the industries following our activities.
Data update
In 1 year (11.2022 – 11.2023) :
• +1,622 new followers
• 104,203 Impressions
• 2,280 Reactions
• Still, 100% organic growth, 0% sponsored
The association's active presence at key events
Amplifying our voice
Association / Congresses
Nuclear Medicine Europe has made its presence felt robustly this year, represented at various key events either by one or multiple members of the Executive Committee or by dedicated Working Group members.
This strategic representation has ensured that the unique challenges and perspectives of the nuclear medicine industry are not only heard but given the attention they deserve. Through these engagements, Nuclear Medicine Europe has effectively voiced the sector’s concerns, paving the way for meaningful dialogue and potential solutions.
Some of these events included The Stakeholders Dialogue on the Pharmaceutical Package (May), the 60 years of JRC Nuclear Safety and Security (November), the Therapeutic Use of Radiopharmaceuticals – Europe’s legal bases: Findings and Recommendations from the EC SIMPLERAD study (December), The European Observatory Meetings (April and November), the JRC Workshop in Ispra (April), The opening of Telix’s radiopharmaceutical production facility (June), the 3rd ICPO Forum for Theranostics in Precision Oncology (October), the discussions on radioisotopes landscape in the Netherlands; organized by the Dutch Health Ministry / Quartermaster Wim Oyen (December), the opening of new Field Lab of NRG in Petten (December), Simplerad meeting in Brussels (December), etc.
Working Groups
The heart of the association
Association / Working Groups
Always active, motivated, and putting their vigilance at the service of our projects: The Nuclear Medicine Europe Working Groups.
Working groups are the heartbeat of our association. These experts work with enthusiasm and motivation to disseminate our projects of common interest among our members, guiding us toward judicious decisions for our discipline.
Once again this year, there have been important topics. We already mentioned the Pharma Law which is followed through the EU institutions by the Regulatory Affairs & Quality Working Group; the Security of Supply Working Group, which ensures seamless cooperation of the global reactor fleet and will look into the possibility of consulting on newer isotopes; the Transport Experts Working Group is heavily involved in monitoring new directives on the use of lead metal and the deny of shipment issues; the Therapy Working Group, tasked with emphasizing the importance of nuclear medicine within this new discipline; and the Communications Working Group, which will embark on new information projects about our activities.
We would therefore take the opportunity to express our gratitude to each of the Working Group members who enable us to benefit from their expertise to support our Members’ organization and also in 2024 plan to meet, work on projects, and communicate with us for the benefit of the patients.
Newcomers in the Membership
Stronger together
In 2023, Nuclear Medicine Europe proudly welcomes new partners of the industry into its membership. Several of these innovative entities have already seized the opportunity to introduce themselves during the latest Annual General Meeting in Brussels last June. As we collectively embark on the 2024 chapter, there is an eager anticipation for the collaborative efforts that lie ahead. With a shared commitment to advancing nuclear medicine, we look forward to forging meaningful partnerships and collaborating in Working Groups that ultimately benefit the patients.
Discover brief introductions for each new member below, crafted from their own communication materials. For a comprehensive overview of their services and products, please visit their respective websites.
ITM Isotope Technologies
ITM Isotope Technologies Munich SE is a leading biotechnology and radiopharmaceutical group dedicated to developing and supplying targeted diagnostic and therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals for cancer treatment. Established in 2004, ITM has a global supply network and GMP manufacturing capabilities, focusing on innovative medical radioisotopes. The company is also advancing a Precision Oncology Pipeline with treatments for various cancers, including neuroendocrine tumors, glioblastoma, prostate cancer, ovarian cancer, and osteosarcoma. Their lead candidate, n.c.a. 177Lu-edotreotide, is undergoing phase III clinical trials. Collaborating globally, ITM aims to improve cancer treatment outcomes and quality of life, minimizing side effects and enhancing health economics through Targeted Radionuclide Therapies in Precision Oncology.
Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine
Formerly known as The Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson, J&J Innovative Medicine is driven by patient insights, their science-based innovations address complex diseases with rigorous science and compassion, aiming to unlock potential medicines for the future. The diverse portfolio spans Oncology, Immunology, Neuroscience, Cardiovascular, Pulmonary Hypertension, and Retina.
Orano Group
Orano showcases distinctive, globally acknowledged proficiency in the nuclear fuel cycle. The Group delivers high-performance products and services to its clientele, covering activities from mining to dismantling, conversion, enrichment, recycling, logistics, and engineering.
Benefiting from over 50 years of expertise, Orano extends a diverse array of services to its clients in the nuclear industry and other sectors. These services encompass mining, transportation, decommissioning, waste management, and global engineering solutions.
https://www.orano.group/en/unpacking-nuclear/nuclear-medicine
Urenco
Urenco, an international supplier of enrichment services and fuel cycle products, prioritizes sustainability in its 50-year legacy. Operating globally with enrichment facilities in Germany, the Netherlands, the UK, and the USA, Urenco ensures diverse and secure supply for zero-carbon electricity generation. Using centrifuge technology and a skilled workforce, the company provides safe, cost-effective, and reliable services while upholding high environmental, social, and governance standards.
Committed to responsible nuclear material management, Urenco invests in sustainable innovations such as nuclear medicine and industrial efficiency. The company also focuses on nurturing the next generation of scientists and engineers.
Life Molecular Imaging
With a focus on a critical aspect of modern medicine, Life Molecular Imaging (LMI) is actively engaged in the development of novel PET tracers for molecular imaging. LMI aims to establish itself as a leader in the molecular imaging field by creating innovative products. These advancements are designed to enhance the early detection and characterization of chronic and life-threatening diseases, ultimately resulting in improved therapeutic outcomes and an enhanced quality of life.
The mission of Life Molecular Imaging is centered on providing innovative PET tracers to alleviate the burden of diseases. Their commitment lies in developing novel PET tracers in the realm of Molecular Imaging, with a dedicated focus on improving early detection and characterization of diseases, leading to enhanced therapeutic outcomes and an elevated quality of life.
Serac – Life Sciences
Pioneering breakthroughs in molecular imaging, Serac Life Sciences is dedicated to enhancing patient care and quality of life, irrespective of their location. Through its wholly owned subsidiaries, the company is advancing two late-stage molecular imaging technologies. The goal is to empower physicians in delivering personalized medicine to a broader spectrum of patients.
Atonco
Atonco is a clinical-stage radiopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing innovative radiopharmaceutical products utilizing astate-211, an alpha-emitting radionuclide for cancer treatment. Established in 2019 and crafted with an experienced and passionate team, Atonco holds exclusive global licenses for the use of an antibody and proprietary innovative radiolabeling technology.
Founded on disruptive and innovative alpha-immunotherapy, Atonco addresses two objectives:
• Clinical indications with genuine unmet therapeutic needs.
• Tumor targets that are rapidly accessible, suited to the short half-life of astate-211 (7.2 hours), and with a size adapted to the very short range of emitted alpha particles.
Nihon Medi-Physics
With a focus on innovation, the company introduces new products for brachytherapy in prostate cancer treatment, building on their diagnostic expertise.
Diagnostic Field: Radiopharmaceuticals for nuclear medicine procedures – Serving over 1200 medical institutions in Japan for brain, heart, and malignant tumor tests.
Therapy Field: I-125 radioactive seed (specially controlled medical device) – Designed for brachytherapy with iodine-125, aiming to reduce treatment time, side effects, and aftereffects compared to conventional surgery, thereby improving the overall quality of life for patients. The company actively collaborates with medical institutions to expand the reach of this beneficial therapy.
Heading to 2024
What's next?
The Nuclear Medicine Europe team and Working Group members are already at work on next year’s projects and activities.
We can already confirm Nuclear Medicine Europe’s presence at the SNMMI Annual Meeting at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre in June. We will also take part, as always, at the EANM Congress happening this year in Hamburg.
The Working Group activities will return to more physical meetings and a workshop is being prepared as well.
We look forward to telling you more very soon!
Thank you!
Editor : David Crunelle