As a result of the work undertaken to-date, the NEA has released six reports under The Supply of Medical Radioisotopes series, subtitled:
Market Impacts of Converting to Low-enriched Uranium Targets for Medical Isotope Production
This study provides the findings and analysis from an extensive examination of the 99Mo/99mTc supply chain by the OECD/NEA High-level Group on the Security of Supply of Medical Radioisotopes (HLG-MR). It presents a comprehensive evaluation of the potential impacts from conversion to using LEU targets for 99Mo production on the global market for 99Mo/99mTc in terms of costs and available production capacity, and the corresponding implications for long-term supply reliability. In this context, the study also discusses briefly the need for policy action by governments in their efforts to ensure a stable and secure long-term supply of 99Mo/99mTc.
The Path to Reliability
This report provides the findings and analysis of two years of extensive examination of the 99Mo/99mTc supply chain by the HLG-MR. It puts forth a comprehensive policy approach that would help ensure long-term supply security of 99Mo/99mTc, detailing the essential steps to be taken by governments, industry and the health community to address the vulnerabilities of the supply chain, including its economic structure. This report serves as the final report of the HLG-MR.
Summary in English | Synthèse en français
An Assessment of Long-term Global Demand for Technetium-99m
As a result of the uncertainty and the lack of a long-term comprehensive demand overview that includes recent changes in the supply chain, the HLG‑MR sought to better understand future demand for 99Mo/99mTc and related nuclear medicine procedures. This report provides the findings and analysis of the data obtained from a global on-line survey on the future demand for 99mTc and diagnostic imaging out to 2020 and 2030. Based on analysis of the data, the report presents a future demand scenario for 99Mo/99mTc, indicating ongoing long-term demand.
An Economic Study of the Molybdenum-99 Supply Chain
This report offers a unique analysis of the 99Mo/99mTc supply chain, finding that the recent shortages are linked to insufficient capital investment, brought about by an economic structure that does not provide sufficient remuneration for producing 99Mo or support for developing additional production and processing infrastructure. To assist decision makers in their efforts to ensure long-term, reliable 99Mo/99mTc supply, the study presents options for creating a sustainable economic structure.
Summary in English | Synthèse en français
Interim Report of the OECD/NEA High-level Group on Security of Supply of Medical Radioisotopes
This report presents findings related to the main issues affecting security of supply including reactor and processing capacity constraints, transport, demand management, communications and other supply chain problems. The report makes: key recommendations, including on the need to continue the improved communications between suppliers and end users, especially during an unexpected reactor shutdown; suggestions to streamline and harmonise transport approvals by the industry and regulator; and highlights the importance of understanding future demand. It provides a comprehensive look at these and other topics and the other findings of the HLG-MR work to date.
Review of Potential Molybdenum-99/Technetium-99m Production Technologies
In this report, potential alternatives for the production of 99mTc and its parent isotope, 99Mo, are presented and reviewed. The report serves two purposes. First, it provides criteria for objectively assessing alternative technologies. Second, the report provides an assessment of the technical and economic merits of the available technologies, dividing the technologies into short-, medium-, and long-term opportunities. The developed criteria and the assessment of alternative technologies could be used by decision makers examining possible infrastructure for new production of 99Mo/99mTc.
Last reviewed: 12 February 2013