14/11/2025
BRONCHOSCOPY MACHINE BOOSTS LUNG CANCER DIAGNOSTICS AT NDOLA TEACHING HOSPITAL
========================
Ndola Teaching Hospital has strengthened its respiratory diagnostic capacity following the official handover of a bronchoscopy machine and accompanying digital equipment valued at over K700,000.
The donation was made through the Multinational Lung Cancer Control Program (MLCCP), implemented by Access to Health Zambia and Zambart, with support from the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation.
Speaking during the ceremony, Copperbelt Provincial Health Director, Dr. Charles Mwinuna, represented by Dr. Nasilele Simushi, described the donation as a major step toward improving early detection and management of lung cancer, tuberculosis, and other respiratory conditions on the Copperbelt.
He said the bronchoscopy machine represents more than a technological upgrade, stressing that it symbolizes progress, innovation, and the power of collaboration in improving public health outcomes.
“Bronchoscopy is a critical diagnostic tool that enables clinicians to detect lung abnormalities early. By enhancing diagnostic capacity here in the Copperbelt, we move a step closer to reducing the burden of respiratory diseases and improving patient outcomes,” he said.
Dr. Mwinuna applauded Access to Health Zambia and Zambart for their leadership in research and health system strengthening, stating that their partnership with Ndola Teaching Hospital demonstrates how collaboration can deliver meaningful healthcare solutions.
He urged the hospital’s management and clinical staff to ensure optimal use and proper maintenance of the machine to improve service delivery.
“As we receive this bronchoscopy machine, let us renew our commitment to advancing health equity, investing in technology, and building a resilient healthcare system for the people of Zambia,” he added.
Access to Health Zambia Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Batuke Walusiku-Mwewa, said the donation aligns with national efforts to combat cancer and expand specialized healthcare services.
She highlighted that the partnership with Zambart and the Ministry of Health under the MLCCP has strengthened cancer awareness, trained community health workers, and expanded lung cancer screening in Ndola and Kabwe.
“As part of this ongoing work, we are proud to hand over a bronchoscopy machine, laptops, tablets, and a desktop computer to enhance diagnostics, data management, and research,” she said.
Zambart Executive Director, Dr. Kwame Shanaube, commended the partnership, noting that improved diagnostic equipment is essential for reducing delays in lung cancer detection and improving treatment outcomes.
She emphasized that bronchoscopy capacity at Ndola Teaching Hospital will help reduce misdiagnosis and delays in patient care.
Meanwhile, Ndola Teaching Hospital Acting Head Clinical Care, Dr. Tela Bulaya, thanked Zambart, Access to Health Zambia, and the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation for the donation, describing it as a milestone in advancing the hospital’s respiratory services.
“For years, patients suspected of having lung cancer or other respiratory complications had to be referred to Lusaka at great financial and emotional cost,” she said. “Today, that burden has been lifted. This machine brings life-saving diagnostic services closer to the people.”
Dr. Bulaya assured partners that the equipment will be properly maintained and fully utilized, supported through continuous staff training. She also acknowledged the efforts of the Internal Medicine, Respiratory, and Biomedical Engineering teams whose dedication made the milestone possible.
The newly commissioned bronchoscopy machine is expected to significantly improve diagnostic accuracy, reduce referral delays, and strengthen Ndola Teaching Hospital’s role as a regional centre for specialized healthcare services.
By :Ndola Teaching Hospital Public Relations Department
