China - January 03, 2025 New nuclear reactor for medical isotope production comes online in east China's Zhejiang (Voice_over) One of China's nuclear reactors for medical isotopes is now officially online to produce Lutetium-177, a vital isotope for cancer treatment. The Qinshan Nuclear Power Station in east China's Zhejiang Province has produced its first batch of the isotope, making a milestone for the country and its developer, the China National Nuclear Corporation. Medical isotopes are important for diagnosing and treating cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Because some have short half-lives and decay quickly, transporting medical isotopes could make them less efficient. Domestically produced medical isotopes, therefore, are expected to help the country reduce its dependency on imports and provide better medical treatment to its citizens. (Sound_bite) Li Shisheng, Deputy chief engineer, CNNC Qinshan nuclear power plant: "The short half-life of isotopes like Lutetium-177 often results in significant decay during transport from overseas suppliers. Compared to foreign supplies, our domestic production ensures less decay and higher utilization efficiency." [Restrictions : No access Chinese mainland]