Access to Medical Isotopes

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: Albania
Delegate Name: Alaina Smith
School: Mattawan High School

Currently, the world is teetering on the edge of a crisis. The majority of the supply of the critical radioactive isotope, M0-99/Tc-99, depends on only 5 nuclear reactors. This potential crisis became all too clear in 2008, when only one major irradiation facility remained operational. Supplies became limited, and many patients were denied access to lifesaving scans. Seeing that TC-99 is used in 80% of all nuclear medicine procedures, according to the World Nuclear Association, it is clear that something needs to be done.

This issue pertains to every country, as we are all dependent on the limited sources of these isotopes. We are also all affected by the risks associated with the creation of radioactive isotopes; especially, the ability to turn some of the raw materials involved in production into nuclear weapons. Albania, because of its lack of a production facility, is dependent on the rest of the world to supply it with steady production. Albania's hope is that the fear of nuclear weapons and radiation won't overshadow the capabilities of isotopes as diagnostic tools.

A promising solution to the issues of limited supplies and the risk of weapons production is continued research of a new production method. Called a cyclotron, this new method of production works by accelerating hydrogen ions and firing them at MO-100, which then transmutes into TC-99. Cyclotrons can be built safely inside hospitals as they don't melt down. Because hospitals create their own supply, the risks of transporting nuclear materials is eliminated.

The cyclotron approach, however, works best in small, closely packed countries, as the 6-day half life of TC-99 makes it difficult to transport to hospitals that can't afford a cyclotron. While this is a drawback, the 6 day half life does prevent countries from stockpiling nuclear material, and allows smaller, undeveloped countries the opportunity to produce medical isotopes without a nuclear reactor.

Because of the risk of a limited supply of isotopes, as well as the benefits of alternative production, Albania proposes that the World Health Organization promote cyclotron development, as well as research of other methods of production. Albania believes that providing research grants to the innovators of isotope production, as well as providing grants to hospitals willing to install a cyclotron, are the best ways to encourage safer, better isotope production.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: Argentina
Delegate Name: Olivia Decker
School: Royal Oak High School

Argentina understands the serious global need for isotopes and believes that it is crucial for the world to support countries that do not have access to them. They are critical for countries with fewer medical resources and many patients. Unfortunately, many countries do not have the money to build their own reactor, and then they also need access to HEU (highly-enriched uranium) in order to produce medical isotopes.

However, HEU can be dangerous in large quantities, and it is risky to transport and store it. Therefore, Argentina recommends the use of LEU (low enriched uranium) in order to reduce the risk. In 2008, the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) has removed U.S. origin HEU from Argentina, as well as Portugal and Romania. It has completely removed all U.S. origin HEU from Germany and 16 other countries as part of its Global Threat Reduction Initiative (GTRI). We’ve also had HEU using research actors successfully converted to LEU using research reactors by the NNSA, along with South Africa, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan. We think that using the LEU over the HEU will be safer.

We do know that LEU is more medically limited than HEU, and it is also more expensive, but we do believe that it will be safest in the long run to use LEU. Countries that are fortunate enough to have the reactors that produce medical isotopes should work to help other countries that do not in order to boost the global economy and health in medically impoverished countries.

Argentina understands the essentiality of medical isotopes all around the world, but we also understand that HEU is dangerous, and if it gets into the wrong hands, it can be detrimental to international security. So, if we use LEU and support less fortunate countries, we can be a safer and healthier world.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: Austria
Delegate Name: Mario Lei
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

Nuclear medicine is a medical specialty involving the application of radioactive substances in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. These radioactive substances come in the form of Molybdenum-99 and Technetium-99m, which are medical isotopes.These medical isotopes are used for scanning, imaging, and research. It can also be used along with chemotherapy. However, there is a shortage of these isotopes as there are only a few reactors that produce most of the world’s isotopes. Many of these reactors are more than forty years old. The reactors that produce these isotopes are either shut down, in the process of shutting down, or being repaired. In addition, there is the risk of HEU( Highly Enriched Uranium) being used as a weapon.

Austria has had some issues with medical isotopes. Similar to many countries, the shortage has affected Austria as well. Some of the reactors in the European Union have been shut down. There has also been an extended time scale associated with the replacement of the main reactors.

This is a prominent issues that affects all nations. Therefore, Austria advises that all nations collaborate on finding solutions for the short, medium, and long terms. All nations should also share monitoring data to help ensure that all nations have access to a stable isotope supply. In addition, research should be done by all nations to find alternatives to HEU and to find new technology that may help produce medical isotopes while the reactors are out of commision. For security purposes, investigation of alternative transport routes and problems with transportation of medical isotopes is highly advised. Austria would also like the input of other nations as this is a global issue.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: Bangladesh
Delegate Name: Kate Dann
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

Medical isotopes allow doctors and scientists to clearly view their patients’ internal systems and can aid in the fight against cancerous tumors while also furthering scientific research. The radioactive isotopes helped improved treatment of cancer by being sent directly to the tumors and therefore working effectively against it while doing minimal damage to surrounding tissue. Further research could be successful regarding the use of medical isotopes and the fight against HIV. Test injections of certain isotopes into mice infected with HIV have shown success in diminishing the amount of infected cells due to the radioactive decay. There are five main nuclear reactors that produce well over half of the medical isotopes available in the world and these reactors are all close to shutting down, whether it be temporarily or for permanently, due to their age. The most abundant medical isotope produced is molybdenum (Mo-99) which decays into technetium (Tc-99). When the decay of technetium occurs, radiation given off by it can detect diseases and tumors, therefore enhancing one’s medical treatment and expanding their life.The nuclear reactors responsible for producing the isotopes are fundamental for the scientific field because they are responsible for producing the demanded isotopes. Some reactors also produce highly enriched uranium (HEU) which enhances the images produced by the isotopes, though they aren’t necessarily needed because they don’t provide any other gain for the doctors or scientists besides a clearer image; without the HEUs, the images would still be seen.These HEUs could be used for terrorist actions due to their strong radioactivity however, so security risks are present. With any radioactive materials, there is the potential threat of them being stolen or gone missing and has happened in the past.The World Health Organization believes that the need to maintain a balance between the security risks and the demand for the products is necessary. The WHO looks at the medical side of the radioactive materials. They are imperative to benefit society and the ill, which forces society to find a balance between the potential security threats and the benefits of building more reactors to make more medical isotopes.

As the medical research field expands in many different fields of study, the isotope reactors are important to construct and upkeep.They provide the necessary products to help medical patients while also helping further research of HIV, cancer, and other diseases. As many isotopes are generally short lived, production needs to keep up with the growing demands and continuously provide science and the people. Bangladesh plans to build two of its own nuclear reactors by 2025 as proposed by the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission with the help of funding by foreign countries such as Russia, China, and South Korea. Russia itself has committed to funding two billion dollars to the construction of future reactors in Bangladesh. Construction for the first one will start in 2015, and it will be fully active by 2020. These nuclear reactors will produce isotopes necessary for nuclear radioactivity information and research and for reactor engineering. Stopping or even decreasing production of the nuclear reactors in Bangladesh or the isotopes themselves would be detrimental to the health and science of the world and society. Over ten thousand hospitals worldwide rely on radioisotopes for their treatments and diagnostics. By having and promoting nuclear reactors, the socio-economic development of Bangladesh will reach new achievements while they will be successful and make advances in physical, biological, and and engineering developments.

There are, indeed, security risks with the production of HEUs from the possible threat of terrorist group abusing them. These risks need to be acknowledged and they need to be prevented. We cannot let these risks destroy the potential in research expansion. We need to prevent the terrorist issues by maintaining strong security within and around the reactors, while also managing who deals with the transportation and production of the isotopes. The International Atomic Energy Agency has guidelines to ensure the safety and security of isotope production and these rules must be followed. Worldwide shortages of the medical isotopes are possible in the future. If these shortages did happen, cancer patients’ treatments would come to a halt and there would be less research that is necessary to help patients. Isotope production needs to be increased in order to prevent this potential threat from becoming a reality. This calls for an increase in the number of nuclear reactors. The expenses could be considered a setback to the development of the reactors, but that’s why it’s even more necessary for countries to band together and fund each other’s development. This funding of foreign powers also would benefit the funders. Nuclear isotopes would then be shared and transported with nearby countries. The countries of the United Nations must acknowledge this demand and importance of medical isotopes, increase their production, and fund their reactors.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: Belarus
Delegate Name: Macey Smalley
School: Royal Oak High School

As a nation that has had experience with life threatening situations, Belarus strongly supports the use of medical isotopes in medicines. Due to events in the past Belarus is in strong need of these medical isotopes. We believe they will greatly improve the health of Belarusians. Belarus also wants easier access to medical isotopes and even to start production.

The only nuclear reactor in close proximity to Belarus was in Ukraine until 1986 when it exploded and released atomic particles into the air (the Chernobyl disaster). Ever since then, Belarus has had little access to medical isotopes, and we need them now more than ever. The Chernobyl disaster has caused many Belarusians to be diagnosed with cancer and other deformities. With little access to medical isotopes these diseases cannot be combated and continue to be an issue.

While National superpowers fight over the use of these isotopes, Nations such as Belarus are in strong need of them. With the accident in 1986 Belarus notices how desperate nations can be just to have a way of medical treatment. Nations such as Belarus need access to these isotopes but will not be given them nor allowed to create them due to the fear of nuclear weapons. Belarus needs nations to look past that fear in order to save lives and maintain population. Belarus strongly believes that medical isotopes should be used in medicines and nations worldwide should have access to them as well.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: Canada
Delegate Name: Annalise Brinks
School: East Grand Rapids High School

Canada believes the use of medical isotopes has been very beneficial to the worldwide maintenance of health. Since Canada is one of the most major global suppliers of medical isotopes, supplying almost two thirds of the world’s Technetium (Tc-99) intake, Canada supports the use of these medical treatments as they further the advancement of disease research and remedies for severe diseases, including cancer. Although the use of these treatment and research methods is encouraged, Canada would like to draw to attention the need for alternative techniques and products that can be used for these medical and research-based purposes. The Canadian nuclear laboratory, Chalk River Laboratories, has had various issues in the past and will presumably close in 2016. The last time there was a routine shutdown of this facility for maintenance, there was a worldwide shortage of radioisotopes for medical treatment. This complication, along with the threat of the misuse of Highly Enriched Uranium (HEU) for destructive purposes, demonstrates how prevalent the necessity of alternative options is for the global community.

Canada strongly suggests and encourages the further research of alternatives to medical isotopes because of these shortages that happen in the global community. While we can still utilize these medical tools in research and diagnosis, it is important to have substitutes so we do not find ourselves in a crisis in times of need. These alternatives are also crucial for the individuals who will need these radioisotopes for medical uses and will not have access to them due to shortages and deficiencies in the production of these mechanisms.

On the other hand, if these mechanisms continue to be used these as frequently as they are now, then there must be a way to curb the costs of production and procurement and there must be further regulation and caution applied to the handling and exchanging of HEU products. First, the issue of cost for the production and procurement of these medical resources could be partially solved by the World Health Organization helping to provide funding to the production laboratories and the groups and organizations that must purchase these mechanisms. Second, there must be more regulation placed upon the commerce of HEU products because these resources can be used to build dangerous weapons with destructive intentions. The World Health Organization must ensure that these devices are being used purely as medical resources, not as the source of destruction and harm. This can be achieved by placing more regulations of the exchange and production of these products and by using more caution to promote the safety of these interactions.

In short, it is Canada’s priority to ensure that alternatives to medical isotopes are developed and ensure that there is safety and caution used in the exchange of HEU products. The World Health Organization must help the production laboratories and organizations that must purchase these mechanisms with financial aid to curb the cost of these medical resources. We must develop alternatives for Tc-99 medical isotopes in the near future in order to aid and prevent the world from struggling to assist people in times of crisis. Finally, it is the responsibility of the World Health Organization to protect the integrity of the exchange of HEU products. Canada calls the World Health Organization to action in solving all of these issues that arise in the use of medical isotopes.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: China
Delegate Name: Ryan Mersol-Barg
School: Roeper School

Medical isotopes are a valuable resource to many people around the world. They provide thousands with vital and life-saving cancer treatments.

With this in mind, we must address the looming medical isotope shortage that could halt much of our progress with medical research and application, so this must be the focus of our committee. The isotopes produced by these facilities enable 20 million medical scans and cancer treatments each year. Clearly, medical isotopes have significant impact on world health.

One of the main problems faced in the production and distribution of medical isotopes is the security of the supply chain. Around the world, when a nuclear reactor that produces medical isotopes shuts down temporarily, millions of people must decided between delay treatment or more dangerous treatment; this is not an acceptable situation. In 2009, when just two nuclear reactors were shut down for maintenance, between 35,000 and 70,000 people per day missed potentially life saving treatments. This problem is only going to get worse without action, as the Chalk River Reactor in Canada is scheduled to shut down in 2016 and Petten Reactor in the Netherlands is scheduled to shut down in 2022. However, there is a solution to this problem: increased research and infrastructure regarding this supply chain. New technologies allow us to produce these isotopes in safer ways than ever before, namely particle accelerators. Whether we promote the use of this new technology or continue use of nuclear reactors, we must keep the supply of medical isotopes secure from disruption.

One of the main arguments against medical isotopes is the mistaken idea that the facilities used to make medical isotopes will be used to create nuclear weapons. However, we must look at the facts: such a situation is highly unlikely.

We are certain of support from many industrialized countries like the United States and Canada, and when it comes to supporting non-nuclear technologies, Japan.

China looks forward to working with other delegations to resolve this problem.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: Colombia
Delegate Name: Howard Henderson
School: Fishers High School

As a proponent of medical research and development, Colombia strongly supports the use of radioactive isotopes in medicine. For this reason, Colombia is in favor of the creation of more TRIGA class reactors, a small class of nuclear reactor used for training, research, isotopes, and other general atomic uses (hence the acronym).

In the past, Colombia has used the single TRIGA reactor that it already owns to create medical isotopes, and has previously conducted experiments in the field. Colombia urges the WHO to consider the benefits of isotopes before considering the minor danger present due to radioactivity. There are many systems in place to maintain safety in the transport of isotopes which have been smoothly running for decades. The World Nuclear Association states: “since 1971 over 20,000 shipments of used fuel and high-level wastes have been shipped over many kilometers”, and also that “there have been accidents over the years, but never one in which a container with highly radioactive material has been breached, or has leaked”. If the past series of events can be used as a model for the future, then there is little to no issue. However, there is always room for improvement. Colombia is open to the ideas of other nations in regards to safety, but specifically wishes to focus on the production of the particles. The demand is increasing, but the supply is diminishing. It is of the utmost importance that this demand is met. Failing that, the loss of life and the suffering caused are not amenable.

An increase in isotope production also opens a separate issue. Highly enriched uranium (HEU), which is used in nuclear weapons, is the most efficient source of medical isotopes. To maintain a sufficient of production in relative safety, Colombia recommends the use of a small pool-type reactor (which runs without the use of a containment building). These reactors (TRIGA reactors) most often used for research (and therefore use low-enriched uranium, however they were originally designed for use of HEU), but Colombia believes that the installment of such reactors in larger hospitals within countries could benefit the medical community. If the HEU is not stored in large quantities, then the risk is reduced. The installation of such small reactors creates a more “on-demand” supply of isotopes, shortening the gap between the source and the consumer, creating less risk in transportation, and making it cheaper too. As an added bonus, the power outputted from running the reactor can keep the hospitals’ electrical bills lower.

The proposal may raise fear that the reactor could harm the patients at the hospitals. TRIGA reactors are most often used in universities and other institutions; they are designed to be safe and have an extremely low risk of meltdown. In Colombia’s eyes, the future of medical isotopes lies with TRIGA reactors. Its recommendation is that the United Nations forms a council to discern major hospitals in various countries that can support a small reactor. Then, the council will authorize the construction of the reactors, and get them constructed. The expense is an investment with return in medical progress. The installation of TRIGA reactors can serve as a valuable tool in saving lives and combatting disease, and Colombia recommends their use in order to solve the issue of medical isotopes.

Works Cited

Transport of Radioactive Materials. (2014, August 1). Retrieved November 9, 2014, from http://www.world-nuclear.org/info/Nuclear-Fuel-Cycle/Transport/Transport-of-Radioactive-Materials/

TRIGA. (n.d.). Retrieved November 10, 2014, from Transport of Radioactive Materials. (2014, August 1). Retrieved November 9, 2014, from http://www.world-nuclear.org/info/Nuclear-Fuel-Cycle/Transport/Transport-of-Radioactive-Materials/

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: Congo
Delegate Name: Monique Taylor
School: Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy

As our understanding of technology increases, so do our options for its applications. Such is the nature of progress, and nuclear power is one such example. Instead of the damaging and sometimes deadly effects it’s associated with, we have the power to develop nuclear products that help to heal. This is the purpose of medical radioactive isotopes, also known as nuclear medicine. Over 10,000 hospitals worldwide use radioisotopes in the process of diagnosing diseases through imaging, as well as to treat diseased organs, cancers, and tumors.

While the rate of radiopharmaceutical use is indeed increasing, the majority of the markets and producers are in developed countries. We do acknowledge that people within those countries are suffering and in need of the help these products provide. But there's been so much violence and dissemination of disease in less developed countries that while doctors are doing the best they can, they simply don't have the funds or technology to provide these products for their own people while trying to handle other issues. Because of these issues, the Democratic Republic of the Congo is in favor of increasing international access to medical isotopes.

We recognize the possible dangers in increasing access. Because they’re produced through nuclear means, the use of Highly Enriched Uranium poses a security risk, but the best possible manner to handle this is through training and increasing on-site security at these reactors. In the use of anything related to nuclear power, there is always the issue of waste and how to handle disposal. But because of the recent breakthrough in Saskatoon, Canada, we firmly believe that with more research and international cooperation, it is possible that scientists could develop a method in which these isotopes could be mass produced without the use of a reactor, perhaps even within hospitals themselves. This would simultaneously help to reduce the chance of a future shortage.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: Cuba
Delegate Name: Timothy Gombis
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

Medical Isotopes are radioactive materials that are used in diagnostics and treatment. These Isotopes, also known as “radioactive medicine”, are used in the treatment of different types of cancers by targeting the diseased cells and killing them. However, due to growing international demand, these isotopes are not being produced fast enough. The US produces and exports 90% of radioisotopes. There are other risks to obtaining these isotopes. Since some medicines can be highly enriched uranium, certain groups might take advantage of this. There are multiple regions where these are unavailable, thus patients are more likely to lose their fights against a given disease. This is the case with the Republic of Cuba. Cuba today attempts to provide exquisite health care to our citizens. We believe that access to isotopes in this treatment should be easy and plentiful. Cuba has a high cancer rate compared to the US, so we are in much need of isotopes. Due to the lack of funds, hospitals and administrations do not have the resources to properly treat cancer and other tumor-causing diseases. This is Cuba’s position; Cuba does not have the correct funds to support citizens and provide isotopes as well. A possible solution to this problem is either to amend the health care system to further gain revenue to invest in isotopes, or Cuba could request experts to educate scientists to develop isotopes within the country, or to be self sufficient. Otherwise, Cuba could research alternative medicines or other treatments to cure or prevent diseases.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: Ethiopia
Delegate Name: Carter Wade
School: Roeper School

Fellow delegates, honorable chair, the pending issue of access to radioisotopes used in medicine has fostered the uncovering and treatment of several ailments such as cancer, which can be found by consumption of radioisotopes that then collect in tumors and can then be pinpointed using a detector. The tumor can then be removed by ionizing bombardment destroying the structure. Another use is in the treatment of …This has become a significant problem on international scales.

Public opinion of the medical use of radiation is skewed by a variety of misconceptions, particularly the erroneous notion that exposure to radiation would make one radioactive. This mistaken concept establishes that even if widespread availability to medical isotopes was not a problem, public resistance continues to provide an additional barrier. The obvious solution is education to inform people that controlled radiation poses no danger to their health.

Alas, access to medical isotopes is the more pressing matter. An increase of production and exports by nations which have mastered this technology would increase availability. Lowering prices would encourage imports. Furthermore, reducing taxes on shipping increases profitability of exports and would permit lower prices without sacrificing profit. Therefore, incentives to lower shipping taxes and provide education on false rumors should be encouraged for all countries.

For the past year, Ethiopia has been exploring the possibility of constructing its first nuclear plant for power generation. One of the side benefits would be the potential for domestic development of medical isotopes. However currently Ethiopia is like the vast majority of developing nations: without nuclear power and so without the capacity to develop medical isotopes within its borders. Ethiopia is eager to work with all other nations to develop a plan to make the production and development of medical isotopes available to the medical systems of all nations at a far lower cost than currently exists. Only through international cooperation and access to the nuclear reactors of other nations will such a goal be possible to achieve.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: France
Delegate Name: Brooke Bacigal
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Molybdenum-99 (Mo-99) is used to produce technetium-99m (Tc-99m), a medical isotope that is used in about 100,000 diagnostic medical procedures globally every day. Today, Mo-99 is produced at facilities primarily using highly-enriched uranium (HEU) – a weapons-usable material. France recognizes HEU minimization while continuing the safe production of medical isotopes as a chief priority.

Three other countries also acknowledge that HEU, which can be directly used for the manufacture of nuclear explosive devices, is sensitive and requires special precautions. For this reason, France along with Belgium, the Netherlands, and the United States reiterate the importance of activities to ensure that security measures employed at all medical isotope production facilities using HEU, provide protection at least comparable to commitments in international treaties and to the recommendations set forth in International Atomic Energy Agency information circular INFCIRC/225 as revised. These countries also reaffirm their dedication to support the conversion of European production industries to non-HEU-based processes by 2015, to reach a sustainable medical isotope production for the benefit of patients in Europe, the United States and elsewhere.

To ensure little to no discontinuity in irradiation facilities in France the Jules Horowitz Reactor (JHR), a new Material Testing Reactor, is currently under construction at CEA Cadarache research centre. The reactor will place much of its energy toward medical isotopes production. JHR is designed, built and will be operated as an international user-facility open to international collaboration. This new reactor will replace France's older reactor OSIRIS, a major producer of Europe and the world's medical isotopes.

France would like to emphasize the danger in the continued use of HEU to produce medical isotopes, and further encourage other countries to consider making the shift to non-HEU-based processes. Because, HEU minimization and the continuation of the safe production of medical isotopes is a chief priority.

Works Cited:

Bignan, G., Lemoine, P., Bravo, X., “The Jules Horowitz Reactor: A New European MTR (Material Testing Reactor) Open to International Collaboration: Description and Status,” RRFM 2011,

"Belgium-France-Netherlands-United States Joint Statement: Minimization of HEU and the Reliable Supply of Medical Radioisotopes." The White House. The White House, 26 Mar. 2012. Web.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: Georgia
Delegate Name: Adam Damato
School: Forest Hills Central High School

We strongly believe that access to medical isotopes should be expanded increasing the overall demand. If demand is to increase we want to jump on board with making medical isotopes so we can help provide them to to other countries. Interaction with more countries is something we need to improve on. We currently only have a few trading partners and what we are trading is provided by many other countries. So if we can start to supply medical isotopes many more countries will want to trade with us. It will also put our country in a whole new light. Besides for our own advantages medical isotopes has the potential to save many many lives. It is also a growing study so the more we learn about it the more can be done. It is because of this that we believe it is very stable and shows great potential.

As far as which countries to exchange with we want to further interaction with the EU and the US. We need to start interacting with bigger powers like these to help us in the long run. The more connections we make the more we can grow and the more safe we will become.

We would also like help with the making of medical isotopes. We understand that other countries are willing to help out promising countries like us if it is to their potential gain. It is because of this that we want to seek help from them in helping getting us started with the making and usage of medical isotopes.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: Germany
Delegate Name: Marie Hetherington
School: Williamston High School

The origins of nuclear medicine can be traced all the way back to the 1920s when German scientist George de Hevesy conducted experiments displaying the metabolic pathways of rats using radionuclides. This first establishment of the tracer principle paved the way for nuclear medicine as we know it today. The use of radioactive materials in medicine is used primarily for early diagnosis, but can also be used in the treatment of some diseases. There are 40 million procedures using technetium (Tc-99) each year, in over 10,000 hospitals. The demand for Molybdeum (Mo-99) is on the rise, while production remains the same. There are only five reactors that produce Mo-99. NRU, SAFARI, OSIRIS, BR2, and HFR, located in Canada, South Africa, France, Belgium and the Netherlands, respectively. Updates to the facilities are needed, as they are all more than forty years old.

In 2011, Germany enacted a policy to phase out of nuclear energy, and eight nuclear reactors in Germany have been shut down. The German public is strongly opposed to nuclear power, however, the need for nuclear medicine is evident. It is key that Mo-99 is produced in a safe way that is non-threatening to our environment. To prevent Mo-99 shortages, the existing reactors need to be upgraded, and in the case of extreme shortages, new reactors should be opened.

The transportation of medical isotopes, as with any radioactive materials, requires careful consideration to prevent any accidents. Seeing as there are only five reactors that produce Mo-99, and very few processors, logistics is vital. The hospitals receive technetium generators, which are lead pots enclosing a glass tube containing the radioisotope. To ensure the security of both the Mo-99 and the population, strict guidelines concerning the transportation methods of the radioisotopes must be established.

Germany hopes to solve the pressing problem of medical isotope shortages. While the use of radioisotopes in medicine is extremely important; the wellbeing of our environment must also be taken into consideration. We must take all measures possible to prevent any disasters in the existing reactors.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: Guatemala
Delegate Name: James Hawthorne
School: Mattawan High School

Isotopes and radioactive elements have caused issues and debate ever since they were discovered. Nuclear power is prevalent around the world and a solid way to make energy. It was also used to make the two nuclear bombs that destroyed parts of Japan. Radioactivity can be manipulated for a wide array of uses and nowadays, it has been refined to the medical field. Molybdenum (Mo-99) is the most commonly used to treat illnesses such as cancer. HEU or Highly Enriched Uranium is also used, and although it can be weaponized, the amount of isotopes created is much higher. The question soon arises about who should have access to these isotopes and where should they be held. Currently, most of the reactors who make these isotopes are in Europe. Housing weapon grade uranium is never a good idea and with the world in it’s current state, nowhere can truly be safe.

In perspective to the rest of the world, Guatemala poses little threat. Being barely big enough to make an impact, it’s voice is small. Guatemala hopes to soon make a difference, however, by solving the medical isotope problem. With almost half of Guatemala’s adult deaths coming from noncommunicable diseases such as cancer, the country is looking for an answer. Medical isotopes have seemed to work in countries such as the United States, and Guatemala hopes to receive similar benefits.Without help from the international community, Guatemala and places like it will suffer.

It is the hope of the less fortunate countries that an agreement on medical isotopes can be met. The major nations who contribute to the making and distributing of these isotopes can hopefully reach a compromise on who should hold them and who should distribute them. Security measures need to be taken to ensure their safety, but along with their organization, I believe medical isotopes can be available to every corner of the globe.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: Haiti
Delegate Name: Charlotte Mathias
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

The use of medical radioisotopes has become an increasingly popular method for the diagnosis and treatment of disease in many countries. However, the availability of medical isotopes, such as the most commonly used isotope, Molybdenum (Mo-99), has become greatly limited, leaving many countries in need of more nuclear materials or another method of producing these medical isotopes. The reason that medical isotopes have become so limited is because there are not enough facilities producing the isotopes. Therefore the World Health Organization must find a way to increase the number of facilities producing medical isotopes. However, another issue that arises when dealing with the creation of materials for medical isotopes is the use of Highly Enriched Uranium (HEU), which presents possible security risks regarding the safety of surrounding communities, global terrorism, and the black market. The use of HEU is not necessary to create medical isotopes, but it does increase the yield of useful isotopes. Therefore the World Health Organization must find a way to increase the number of facilities producing medical isotopes and find a way to produce enough medical isotopes to satisfy the increasing demand without the use of HEU.

Haiti believes that the World Health Organization should increase the development of cyclotrons, which are a type of particle accelerator that allow medical isotopes to be produced without the use of nuclear reactors. More importantly, Haiti believes that the use of cyclotrons should be emphasized in developing countries in order to promote the medical and economical development that they are lacking. Because Haiti and other developing countries did not have access to medical isotopes even before the supply became limited, the cyclotron would give them the opportunity to have access to medical isotopes without having to deal with the security issues brought about with the use of nuclear reactors and HEU. Therefore Haiti believes that The World Health Organization should increase the development of cyclotrons throughout the world, with an emphasis on developing countries, in order to increase the number of facilities producing medical isotopes without the use of HEU and the potential security risks it has.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: India
Delegate Name: Dakoda Howard
School: Vicksburg High School

One of the biggest worries of Isotopes is the fact of them falling into the wrong hands, which then will be used in the wrong way. These Isotopes are weapons grade uranium which has everyone worried they will taken and used for that purpose instead of medical research. I believe a solution around this would be to have 24/7 security. This way we have eyes on them at all times of the day, we could also use cameras to help keep watch. Our biggest security risk is the Isotopes being stolen with eyes on them at all times this will reduce the risk to help us to keep creating them.

We must increase production to help us maintain Isotopes in the mean time while we discover alternative methods. We can upgrade the current facilities and fund the creation of some new ones to help stabilize the production rate. Once, its stabilized then we will be able to focus our attention on creating new alternatives to Isotopes.

If cost is a factor in this then all the countries using this material to help fund this production. The countries that will be funding this may have to increase taxes or the procedure cost to help raise money. But in the end once we are able to stabilize the costs of everything we will be able to stop the price increases and go back to normal. We believe that only cost will play a huge factor in production and creation of medical Isotopes.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: Italy
Delegate Name: Keely VandenBerge
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

Medical Isotopes are used 70-80 million times per year, and it is growing ten percent each year. By definition medical isotopes are small amounts of radioactive isotopes combined with other compounds used in medical treatments and diagnostic tests. Commonly these tests are used to detect cancerous cells, but are also used in numerous other tests and treatments. These isotopes are manufactured in reactors located mostly in Europe and Canada. The problem is most of these reactors are over 40 years old and either need to be shut down permanently or for maintenance. New ones are in construction, but shortages will happen. The new reactors are being constructed in Australia, Poland, South Africa and Germany. Numerous other countries, including the United States, are looking into updating their current reactor so they could produce isotopes. Highly Enriched Uranium (HEU) is used in some research reactors to create isotopes and create clearer images of isotopes. HEU is also weapons grade uranium. There are possible security risks in regard to safety, global terrorism, and the black market.

Italy strongly supports the fair regulation and distribution of medical isotopes. Italy lacks a way to make their own isotopes and the Italian people rely on imported isotopes. In the event of a shortage diagnostic tests and life-saving treatments are delayed. With a strong regulation and conservation program the Italian people and the rest of the world can continue to receive life-saving treatments.

In dealing with the security of transporting, producing and storing these medical isotopes, strict regulation is the logical plan. The International Atomic Energy (IAEA) deals with reactors and what happens there. WHO’s job is to work with the IAEA to prevent shortages. Because reactors need to be updated there needs to be a system to prevent shortages. Only one reactor should be shut down at a time, and new reactors should be continued to be built and other reactors should be updated to produce isotopes. Storage needs to be regulated so materials go from reactor to patient without harming anyone else. Transporting is also another key issue. Both storage and transporting would fall under IAEA jurisdiction, so WHO would leave it up to them to solve those problems. As long as WHO works with the IAEA to prevent shortages and provide safe storage and transportation the WHO can focus on what happens to patients. Medical isotopes need to be available to everyone and every country. The barrier of high costs is not going to suddenly disappear. Some countries are going to be able to out-buy others, but WHO can make this farrier by regulating costs and distribution. Countries with larger populations should get more isotopes than countries with smaller populations. Medical isotopes are predominantly a western tool of medicine, but people in other areas of the world are dying without this crucial tool. In order to alleviate this issue the WHO should set up a committee to work with the IAEA and also to lower costs and regulate distribution of isotopes. This committee will be in charge of influencing countries to help offset the costs to patients. Also they would help the IAEA provide security for producing, storing, and transporting isotopes.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: Kuwait
Delegate Name: Liam Chechak
School: Mattawan High School

The access to medical isotopes is a growing concern, as the medical field begin to use them more heavily in the treatment of cancers and other ailments. However, the most efficient method of obtaining these isotopes is through the decay of enriched Uranium. This enriched Uranium is considered weapons grade, and as a result, leads to concerns about its distribution, and misuse. In Kuwait, nuclear medicine began to rise in popularity in the 1960’s and now has about ten hospitals, universities, and research centers focusing on this area of the medical field. While the nation of Kuwait has no ill intent regarding nuclear isotopes, there are other nations and radical extremist groups in the region that are causing a growing concern over how these radioactive materials may be used. With Kuwait on the forefront of middle-eastern science, technological and medical development, it would not take kindly to restrictions placed on the research and use of medicinal isotopes.

Despite the conflict of the Gulf War, Kuwait maintains relatively good relations with its neighbors, and is beginning to establish uneasy relations with the U.S. and its allies. Kuwait's governmental tensions are caused by disagreement between the ruling family and the parliament. It is currently experiencing dysfunction within its constitutional monarchy, but is still one of the wealthiest nations in the world, due to its petroleum production. Kuwait has also started to foray into new industries, in order to diversify its economy.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: Libya
Delegate Name: Pooja Patel
School: Grand Blanc High School

We, the country of Libya, feel that access to medical isotopes is a vital part of furthering Libya’s overall state of health and medical research and advancements. Nuclear energy has always been a very controversial issue, and we have been able to come to some compromises with certain countries such as Argentina, France, Russia, and Ukraine with regards to peaceful usage of nuclear energy. However, these compromises have not been sufficient enough to further our access to medical isotopes. We have been able to negotiate with Argentina some ideas for medical research and technologies, but we merely do not have the resources to further anything. In November of 2009, we were ordered to ship out our last batch of highly radioactive uranium because of the United State’s demand for disarmament of nuclear weapons. How are we to create advancements in medical technology much needed in a country where the top two killers are cardiovascular diseases and cancer, both of which can be possibly cured with the help of nuclear medicine?

Many of the risks associated with the transport of nuclear material are over-exaggerated, because nuclear material has traveled many miles to many different countries. There has always been much talk of the risk of a leakage, but there has never been a significant leakage during transportation which caused many deaths. With the technology of today, there are ways to create safer nuclear reactors and storage sites for the highly enriched uranium. The decreasing number of facilities that produce nuclear isotopes emphasizes the necessity of foreign support needed to make our country a qualified and important producer as well. The creation of a medical research facility in our country would be very beneficial in order to help ourselves in our pursuit of something that has not gained wide support worldwide, overall.

We see the imminent need for nuclear medicine as an immediate benefit to our country, and the many developing countries around us. We are ready to take the next step into the future of nuclear medicine, but we have been stripped away of whatever resources we had. A resolution ensuring assistance to our country to jumpstart an action that will promise immeasurable progress in the medical field will be most favorable.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: New Zealand
Delegate Name: Nolan Underwood
School: Vicksburg High School

The use of the isotope Tc-99 is very important in the use of detecting and curing cancer and other illnesses. The issue with this isotope is that it is very dangerous and costly to produce. Currently there are only 5 reactors that can produce this isotope, making shortages for it worldwide. New Zealand recognizes that this isotope is very important for helping patients, as well as the health and well-being of humans, but also acknowledges the dangers of the production and use of Tc-99.

The process of creating Medical Isotopes includes the use of uranium, which puts the people in the surrounding areas at risk of radiation. New Zealand is also hesitant to use more uranium because of the risk of the uranium getting into the hands of terrorists or being put into the black market. While New Zealand believes every effort should be made to help their citizens and to advance their medical technology, we are aware of the risks involved and do not wish to expand our usage of uranium and nuclear reactors.

New Zealand believes that all people should have access to medical isotopes; however, we recognize that there are shortages of these isotopes and the materials needed to create them, and it is unrealistic to believe that all people who need medical isotopes can have access to them. Considering this, New Zealand encourages the research and eventual use of alternative means of creating medical isotopes without using uranium. New Zealand supports the advancements that Canada has already made, and would support the continued research for alternate means to produce the isotopes needed. We would also like to see the cost of production decrease so that cancer cures can be made available to all persons worldwide, and not only those that can afford it. Lastly, if we can come up with alternate means for production, there would be lesser risks of terrorist groups stealing the uranium, or radiation exposure to those involved in the process. Overall, efforts need to be made to research alternate methods of production. New Zealand would consider increasing the production of the isotope Tc-99 in existing nuclear plants until a solution evolves, as long as it was monitored closely and regulations were put in place to keep those exposed safe. However, New Zealand does not want to see more nuclear power plants being constructed if not necessary.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: Nigeria
Delegate Name: Rachel Van Boxtel
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

Medical isotopes, otherwise known as radioisotopes, are a form of radioactive treatment used to identify cancer and other diseases, allowing doctors and scientists to have a clear depiction of the disease or tumor inside their patient’s body. Radioisotopes are also used for research purposes. These are essential for the diagnosis of life-threatening illnesses. On their innermost level, radioisotopes are molecules with a differing amount of neutrons. When radioisotopes are released in the body, they decay more rapidly at tumorous areas or places with rapid cell division. The demand for medical isotopes is rapidly increasing, and many new facilities are being constructed. Molybdenum (Mo-99), an isotope that decays into Technetium (Tc-99), is the most common. Another common material used for medical isotopes is Highly Enriched Uranium (HEU) also referred to as “weapons-grade uranium.” HEU is a main factor contributing to the controversy concerning the security risks of public safety. With wider access to radioactive materials, global terrorism and the black market could manipulate the use of radioisotopes for negative causes. Despite these risks, it is essential for countries to have access to these to ensure proper treatment and diagnosis for their citizens.

Nigeria supports the use of medical isotopes. In fact, in 2009, Nigeria began a partnership with Russia to build a nuclear power plant. This allows Nigeria the right to mine and use nuclear power for the production of medical isotopes. The Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) is a regulatory committee that will oversee the usage of nuclear power to ensure safe, beneficial uses for nuclear power in Nigeria. We recently allowed International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors into our country to inspect our not yet operational ‘Isotope Laboratory.’ We support the use of medical isotopes that are regulated by the International Atomic Energy Agency.

The production, transportation, and storage of HEU and other medical isotopes does have risks. The misuse of these by the black market or by terrorists could be possibly detrimental to the entire world. However, security risks must not hinder the growth of medical possibilities and positive global change. Highly-enforced security during all aspects of the distribution of medical isotopes could alleviate much of those risks by protecting the radioisotopes. These trained security representatives should be provided by the World Health Organization. Frequent regulation inspections of the use of medical isotopes by the International Atomic Energy Agency and other organizations would help to ensure that they are used safely, and then the World Health Organization is in charge of securing proper and beneficial use. If both security and the rate and precision of inspections increase, then the public can still receive the essential treatment and diagnostic tests with low security risks. Also, medical isotopes are quite limited. Production should be increased in order to supply the world with these necessary tools and to avoid shortages that already occur in our country and worldwide. Although increased production is expensive, countries should continue to unify in the production in order to offset costs. Furthermore, the benefit of medical isotopes outweigh the cost; countries globally should recognize this and budget accordingly.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: Portugal
Delegate Name: Ra’Ven Miller
School: Kalamazoo Central High School

There are more than 10 countries in the world that operate research reactors fueled with highly enriched uranium (HEU) or use HEU targets to produce medical isotopes. Medical isotopes are often used for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as heart conditions and cancer, all in non-invasive manner. These reactors and the fuel in them pose substantial safety and security risks. The worst risk begin with that many of the reactors that operate with HEU, in most cases, are enriched to around 90 percent— the same as fuel for nuclear weapons. It would be trouble if HEU, an ideal component, got into the hands of terrorists. The global stockpile of HEU was approximately 1500 tons in 2012, which was enough for more than 60,000 facile, first generation implosion weapons.

As a member of the Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) and OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), Portugal is concerned with ensuring a reliable supply of molybdenum-99 (99Mo) and its decay product technetium-99 (99mTc). Disruptions in the supply chain of these isotopes can interrupt the availability of important medical testing. To alleviate shortages we see to it that there should be more reliability instead of HEU. We have undergone the success of converting reactors to LEU (low enriched uranium) and removing HEU in our country.

Portugal believes that in order to lower or eliminate the barrier between high production and procurement costs with medical isotopes, there has to be a new pricing system for Mo-99 that will cover the full costs of production and should reimburse for the local impacts of production for the global market. It is not a matter of affordability on its own but it is paired with the factor of the danger of it getting into the wrong hands.

Portugal encourages other countries to switch to non-HEU based processes. Due to the greater risks it would be more beneficial in the long run to avert a possible mishap and to continue with experimental treatments.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: Russia
Delegate Name: Kyle Owen
School: Mattawan High School

Medical isotopes used to detect and to cure diseases are extremely important to the international community from a health standpoint. Medical isotopes, or radioisotopes as they are sometimes called, serve two key purposes for doctors. First, radioisotopes are used to create images of internal organs, allowing doctors to detect diseases sooner and make a more accurate diagnosis. Second, medical isotopes serve a purpose in treating life-threatening diseases such as cancer. This use of isotopes, called radiation therapy, allows a supplement to chemotherapy treatment. Such beneficial medical technology does, however, come with health and safety risks. The Russian Federation recognizes the dangers associated with the use of these medical isotopes. From production until disposal, these nuclear materials pose a risk to the safety of not only patients treated with them, but to communities and countries as well.

The issue of providing a safe and reliable supply of medical isotopes for use is an issue that the Russian Federation finds important. As a leading supplier of medical isotopes for the global community, Russia is extremely concerned with the safe and effective production, transport, and storage of these otherwise hazardous materials. At the beginning of the atomic era, many nuclear facilities were built in Russia for the purpose of defense and research. However, with an increase in modern technology, isotopes for medical purposes are a growing focus of the Russian nuclear program. With 35 different nuclear power plants and over 70 reactors inside Russian borders, the Russian government is interested in assuring the safe use of nuclear materials.

As a large part of the global nuclear program, the Russian Federation looks to safely and securely supply other countries with much needed medical isotopes for treatment, as well as help smaller countries develop sustainable nuclear programs of their own for medical purposes. With the help of its nuclear allies, and the international community, the Russian Federation looks favorably upon negotiating fair standards for safe storage and use of radioactive isotopes. The use of isotopes in medicine is extremely valuable, and should in no way be limited as long as there are ways to use these isotopes safely.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: South Africa
Delegate Name: Zachary Willoughby
School: Kalamazoo Central High School

Being a nation that prides itself on being a leading producer of Mo-99, we strongly believe that access to medical isotopes should be made easier for other nations. Necsa, or the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation, is in ownership of the nuclear reactor Safari-1. Necsa’s nuclear reactor, Safari-1, is a leading producer of Mo-99, or Molybdenum-99. Molybdenum-99, in turn, is used to manufacture Technetium-99m. Technetium-99m is the most widely used isotope in nuclear medicine.

In 2012, the General Assembly unanimously adopted a draft resolution supporting Atomic Energy Agency’s work on nuclear safety and security. South Africa was in huge support of this draft resolution.

We strongly believe that access to medical isotopes should be broadened, increasing the overall demand. If demand were to increase not only nationwide, but on a global scale as well, we would gladly host representatives from other nations to teach them how to produce Molybdenum-99. If other countries knew how to produce Molybdenum-99, there would be more production of Technatium-99m. Not only could there be millions more Technetium-99m and Molybdenum-99 isotopes, but if third-world countries could produce just a sliver of these isotopes, they could sell most of them and make a profit, boosting their government and income for citizens.

In conclusion, upon making access easier to medical isotopes, we would train other nations in the mass production of Molybdenum-99. Not only would this boost the amount of medical isotopes, it could also possibly help third world countries boost economic activity and allows them to flourish in the global economy.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: South Korea
Delegate Name: Paige Etchison
School: Fishers High School

Medical isotopes are oftentimes necessary in order to obtain a correct diagnosis for any disease that requires medical imaging technology (such as PET, MRI, fMRI, or CAT scans) in order to diagnose and track progress of treatment, one of the most pressing of these being cancer, which requires PET scans in order to track the metabolic activity (as well as location) of the cancer cells and tumors over the course of the treatment. Yet, due to their radioactive nature, these isotopes pose major issues in their production, transport, and usage, as well as the shortages that exist when these issues cannot be resolved quickly, preventing imaging scans which are often necessary to ensure proper treatment. Some other issues involve the high costs of obtaining these isotopes (and the imaging machines they are used with) as well as the issue of how much of these medical isotopes should be produced.

The Republic of Korea has had many years of previous struggles involving creating an effective medical care system, as well as making sure that health care system is available to all citizens. Over the past thirty years, the Republic of Korea has worked to increase the amount of imaging technology per capita in order to improve the ability of medical professionals to diagnose illness in our people, and currently there are 21.3 MRI scanners and 35.9 CT scanners per 1,000,000 citizens, greatly improving the abilities of medical professionals in the Republic of Korea to diagnose medical conditions that threaten the health and safety of our people. The Republic of Korea encourages the increased availability of medical imaging technology, especially in areas where access is currently limited. With members on the High-level Group on the Security of Supply of Medical Radioisotopes, a committee of government selected experts on radioactive isotopes used in medical imaging as well as government agents who are experts on nuclear energy policy. The focus of this group is to regulate research and industrial organizations involved with the production of medical isotopes.

When it comes to determining a course of action, the Republic of Korea recommends the following: increasing the role of the international community in the encouragement of increasing the availability of imaging technology as well as medical isotopes to nations which might have had limited access in the past, and increasing the diagnostic capabilities of the global community as a whole, while still ensuring that the global community remains safe during the creation, transport, and usage of these materials.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: Sudan
Delegate Name: Sophia Knape
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Sudan is a country without nuclear plants. Plans are in the making for a thirty year plan to establish four nuclear plants in Sudan. Policies are being made to create proper use of the nuclear planets to benefit the country. As of 2030 it is a goal to make grounds with four new nuclear planets. It is estimated to cost 3-6 billion dollars. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is helping the on how to develop safety, security safeguards, legal and regulatory issues to start such projects. Research reactor would be established first to train staff and to produce radioisotopes which could be used in medicine to treat tumours and diagnostics and also in agriculture to create disease-resistant species or reduce insect populations.

Only 20% of the country has electricity and the goal is to get 80% by 2020. Additional things like dams for hydroelectric power, fossil fuels, and alternative energies including bio fuels such as ethanol and solar powers and wind powers. While Sudan is Africa’s biggest country the energy and medical attention is needed to fill the gap of supplies. Sudan signed the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and is entitled to the peaceful application (of nuclear technology).

The new establishment of these plants would bring attention to the fact of how nuclear waste will be disposed and managed. It is the countries best interest to ensure security to these plants and get them operating them in a proficient manner.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: Sweden
Delegate Name: Colleen Janes
School: East Grand Rapids High School

The Kingdom of Sweden strongly supports the use of medical isotopes for diagnostic purposes and radiation therapy. Radiopharmaceuticals are an important form of treatment that have contributed to advancements in the medical world, but as worldwide demand for these isotopes increases, concerns relating to limited supply and potential security threats have risen. Hospital use of these products continue to increase by a steady 2% each year, but the facilities where they are created are lagging behind with outdated materials and limited technology. The most commonly used isotope, Molybdenum-99, is only produced in 5 factories, the majority of which are over 40 years old and are said to shut down in the upcoming years. Furthermore, MO-99 is created with materials considered “weapons-grade”, therefore posing a safety threat towards labs and storage locations containing this highly unsafe ingredient. In response to the possible misuse of the highly enriched uranium found in the isotope, The United States has called for all Molybdenum-99 to be produced with low grade uranium instead.

As a country, Sweden has had a long standing tradition of using nuclear medicine and considers it a well established form of healthcare for its citizens. Since the 1940’s Swedish researchers have been treating patients with radoopharmaceuticals and in 1951 the Maimö General Hospital became Sweden’s first licensed hospital to use radionuclides. Today, 34 more Swedish hospitals have followed in its footsteps. Each year, 106,000 nuclear procedures are undergone in Sweden alone, and as a whole, 1 and 50 Europeans will receive radioactive treatments annually. 90% of these procedures are for diagnostic purposes.

The United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation has spent an ample amount of time discussing the effects and potential risk factors of radiation use in medicine, and in May of 2012 the Committee decided to continue encouraging research to further understand the effects that low dose radiation has on disease in humans. Furthermore, the United Nations recognizes the importance of medical isotope availability to all, even those countries not part of the UN. The United Nations sanction against Iran prohibits the country from obtaining any forms of radiation, but a Security Council exemption allows the nation to purchase nuclear related items for medical purposes on the open market.

Sweden believes that the most efficient way to ensure a steady supply of medical isotopes to all facilities that need them is to promote the use of cyclotrons, machines that can produce radioisotopes for pharmaceutical use. In 1991 Sweden’s Uppsala University installed a cyclotron and has been successfully creating isotopes on site ever since, joining the more than 900 other labs housing these machines world wide. Sweden believes that if more of these machines were to be installed worldwide, the production rate of highly sought after radioisotopes could be increased to minimize the shortage crisis, the barrier of production and distribution costs lessen, and mitigate security concerns that come along with transporting the materials long distances. The medical cyclotron is 2 meters in diameter, making on site installations possible in many hospitals and labs. The localizing of the machines may eliminate the need for long distance isotope transportation, lessening the security risks that go along with shipping “weapon grade” radioactive material through air and sea. Processing costs will be minimized to provide isotopes at a more affordable rate increasing accessibility among patients in need. Sweden proposes a collaboration between nations to further discuss, research and navigate the mainstream usage of cyclotrons in nuclear medicine.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: Tunisia
Delegate Name: Noah Crampton
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

The Medical Isotope Molybdenum (Mo-99) which decays into Technetium (Tc-99), has become increasingly popular in modern cancer treatment. The medical isotope, or radioisotope, decays inside the body to emit safe radiation to show internal organs which doctors otherwise would have to perform surgical procedures to view this organs. The use of these is largely important in medical treatment of cancer, but is expensive, with few places in the world being able to produce these medical isotopes.

With cancer affecting every country, a more efficient way to treat cancer is important to every country in the world. As a nation with rising cancer rates, but still little national spending on health, Tunisia nor its people are able to afford these expensive isotopes, and have no experience with nuclear power plants, reactors, nor nuclear weapons. Tunisia believes that more countries should be able to produce these important medical isotopes, yet these countries that produce these isotopes should have high security due to the extreme risks of the elements being created such as Highly Effective Uranium (HEU) through the production of these isotopes. Tunisia believes that if medical isotopes can be produced in a cheaper and safer way, than countries with low health spending, such as Tunisia, could have access to these isotopes that are so effective in treating cancer, than the world cancer mortality rate could make a stride toward being decreased and eventually eliminated.

If the United Nations were able to partner with safe, wealthy countries such as the United States, Great Britain, France, and others, many more nuclear reactors could be built that would aid in lowering the cost of the aforementioned medical isotopes. Yet with the creation of new reactors, comes the cost of building. This would require the UN and it’s countries to put some spending towards building new reactors, with the countries containing the reactors profiting off of their sales of the isotopes. The profit generated from the sales, could then be used towards protecting these medicals isotopes as they are shipped across the world, so that there would be lessened chance of the isotopes falling into hands of people who do not use safely and effectively. With these solutions, the UN could find a way to help combat the rising cancer mortality rate, and lessen this rate until mortality due to cancer is eradicated.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: Turkey
Delegate Name: Meagan Schlaf
School: Roeper School

Medical isotopes have long been used for the diagnosis and treatment of different medical conditions, particularly cancer. Nuclear medicine is a growing field and Turkey looks forward to discussing and deliberating the issue of medical isotopes.

There are several issues that need to be addressed. First, security issues with the production of medical isotopes, as many facilities still use dangerous HEU (highly enriched uranium) in their reactors. Second, the limited availability of medical isotopes, which has lead to shortages in the past, and will continue to cause shortages if a resolution is not found. Third, the high cost associated with production and transportation of medical isotopes.

In the past, there have been efforts to switch from HEU to LEU (low enriched uranium) in research reactors. Turkey supports these efforts and has actively participated in them, as shown by the fact that earlier this year, Turkey eliminated the use of HEU within its borders. Using HEU is a major security threat given that it is weapons grade uranium. Turkey supports complete elimination of HEU use in the production of medical isotopes.

Another big issue with medical isotopes is shortages. There are currently five main producers of medical isotopes, and their facilities have to be shut down periodically for repairs. In two years, the facility in Canada is scheduled to close. Canada is currently the largest supplier of medical isotopes, this means a major shortage is probable in the near future. However, there is hope. New technology has allowed medical isotopes to be produced using a cyclotron instead of nuclear reactors. The use of these cyclotrons will eliminate radioactive waste and reliance on uranium. Turkey believes it is imperative that this transition is made in the upcoming years so as to prevent a major shortage. Turkey has itself built a cyclotron, and it has found tremendous success in its use. Turkey believes self-sufficiency will be most important in preventing a medical isotope shortage. With our new cyclotron, we are no longer dependent on exports of medical isotopes from other nations. Turkey proposes advertising this kind of independence and encouraging countries to create their own source of medical isotopes, in order to avoid the risks associated with a shortage.

Medical isotopes also tend to be expensive because of the extensive security precautions that must be taken in transporting radioactive materials, as well as the short half-life of the isotopes. Turkey would support any measures aimed at reducing these costs and increasing availability, including investments into research and development on new production and transportation methods as well as national and international subsidies for medical isotopes.

Measures must be taken immediately, as medical isotopes are a vital part of medicine, and the world cannot afford to lose the supply or availability of these isotopes. Simultaneously, the world cannot afford to accept some of the risks of the use of highly enriched uranium. Turkey anticipates the establishment of a balance between these two vital interests. Furthermore, Turkey would like to thank its fellow nations for their cooperation in regards to this issue.

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: United Kingdom
Delegate Name: Brandon Jones
School: Flint Southwestern Classical Academy

We in the United Kingdom have our own publicly funded healthcare. We have placed not just high but first in all health reforms such as; Quality of Care, Access to Care, and Efficiency & Equity (Mirror, Mirror on the Wall Report). With this being said our access to medical isotopes is not scarce. We are actually a thriving country when health is the subject. We have several General Practitioners that not only are well-equipped but are certified to the utmost extent. As well as great to security to make sure our medical isotopes are delivered safely.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:

As for security purposes our government has nominated HLG-MR. This organization is comprised of 40 experts that serve as security when radioisotopes are involved. We have drawn plenty of attention from academic, research personnel, and government decision-makers in China. We are actually the closest in the world to China’s healthcare reform. The NHS, National Health Services, covers all of the British population. It’s taxation is also the main fund of the NHS. In cases of medical shortages we provide alternative medicine of great quality rather it be over the counter or prescribed generic medicine. We also have experimental drugs that could assist our people.

PROPOSED ACTION ON THE ISSUE:

Overall we are completely comfortable with our access to medical isotopes. With a strong healthcare system we believe we will never have to worry. This can also be said for our alternative medicine in case of a shortage. Our appointed group, HLG-MR, will also provide great security for any of our medical transportation. Our health system is completely fulfilled with no intentions of any malfunctions.

Flint Southwestern Classical Academy

Topic: Access to Medical Isotopes
Country: United States
Delegate Name: Owen Purdue
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

The use of radioactive isotopes to treat and scan for diseases in the human body is a relatively new practice. It began, primarily, with the discoveries of the Curies in 1934. Later, an American scientist named John Lawrence was the first to use the newly discovered isotopes to treat patients with leukemia. As the twentieth century progressed, the use of nuclear medicine to treat cancers and other conditions spread quickly. The invention of the gamma camera by other American scientists brought the use of radioactive isotopes to another dimension – that of imaging conditions in the body. By far the most important discovery in this spectrum of the practice has been that of Technetium-99 – it was first synthesized in 1937. Tc-99 is an isotope with a very short half-life (only 7 hours) but emits the right wavelengths to be picked up by gamma cameras. It is synthesized as Molybdenum-99 (Mo-99), an isotope with a much longer half-life, and shipped out to hospitals around the world. Since 1937, it has come to be the most often used isotope in the world of radioactive medical photography. Doctors use Mo-99/Tc-99 to carry out over 30 million procedures around the world. However, a host of problems have presented themselves in the last decade. Firstly, we are running out of our supply of the isotopes. Nuclear reactors producing the isotopes just aren’t keeping up with the demands of the world health community. We must find a way not only to meet the demands of our hospitals, but a way to pay for the new supplies. The reactors that are producing the isotopes are slowing down, going out of date. The committee should consider ways to counteract this. Near the problems of supply also lie the problems of safety, especially concerning an alternate pathway called Highly Enriched Uranium (HEU). HEU can be used to synthesize large amounts of Mo-99/Tc-99, but the problem with HEU lies in its value to agents of terrorism and countries with fledgling nuclear programs. Over a dozen countries have reactors that produce HEU; there is a highly important global security risk in that terrorism or the covert actions of nations may strike at any time, for HEU is an important part of nuclear weapons. We must always be on guard.

The United States of America believes it is important to protect our existing sources of Mo-99/Tc-99 and devise new ways to create more and meet the demands of hospitals worldwide. The use of radioactive photography and radio-pharmaceuticals in the United States has a long history, and has saved countless lives. The return of investments in isotopic medicine cannot be overstated. It is very important we keep producing these isotopes. However, we must evaluate the current situation as best we can and keep in mind other paths that we might be able to follow.

The shortage of Mo-99/Tc-99 is not a problem easily solved. If the decision to build more nuclear reactors dedicated to the creation of medical isotopes is made, the funding must be found to build those reactors. If HEU is chosen to bolster our supply of medical isotopes, the right security and protective measures must be taken to make sure any new materials don’t fall into the wrong hands. Each path has a consequence. Finally, the US would urge all committee members to remember that these are not the only paths we can take; every day, new opportunities in science appear. It is fitting that we should explore the new opportunities and advances in the field of radiation therapy, to find either a balance between solutions or an entirely new one.