The project is designed to establish a Breast Cancer Detection and Awareness Center in Gjakova, Kosovo. The estimated cost of the equipping, installation, training and renovation of the facilities is $159,000. We have tentative commitments for $125,000. We are seeking Rotary Club contributions up to $10,000 together with matching DDF and World Funds. The project will provide cancer screening for an undeserved area with a population of over 200 thousand.
The key to this program is the mammography equipment and facilities needed for its operation. The cancer screening equipment will be purchased from a vendor that will install, train staff and provide assurances that they have the ability and operations to repair and maintain the equipment when needed. The equipment will be a Siemens Mammomat Inspiration digital mammography platform for screening, diagnostics, biopsy and tomosynthesis operations, or equivalent. The basic system will consists of a free-standing examination, microprocessor-controlled with a radiation shield. It will be an integrated system consisting of a low-dosage X-ray tube unit, compression device and object table with an integrated detector. It will have automatic exposure control for the entire breast surface on the detector, thereby ensuring an optimum dose. While these facilities are generally used by women, it is expected that the awareness program will alert men for use of these facilities as well.
The Municipality of Gjakova will provide the building and renovation for the Cancer Center that will include a reception area, dressing rooms, and waiting rooms and include a control room for the equipment and examination. The sustainable operations will be the responsibility of the Municipality's Director of Health Department and the Gjakova Family Medical Center.
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