The first batch of domestically produced strontium-89 nuclides developed and produced by the Nuclear Power Institute of China -- a unit of China National Nuclear Corporation -- was delivered to Chengdu Gaotong Isotope Co Ltd on April 25, according to CNNC reports.

Experts said that relevant indicators showed the nuclides were at international advanced levels, marking the breakthrough that China has successfully developed key technologies for the entire process of research and development, reactor operations, irradiation and production in the strontium-89 nuclide area -- and additionally has capacity to supply strontium chloride.

They said this will not only greatly reduce the treatment costs for domestic patients, but also has laid a foundation for promoting the development of the domestic isotope industry.

Strontium chloride solution. [Photo/CNNC]

Cancer bone metastasis is one of the common complications of malignant tumors. About 65 percent to 80 percent of malignant tumors will develop bone metastases at the advanced stage. Of these, the incidence of bone pain is the highest, which seriously affects patients' daily activities, self-care ability, communication ability and overall quality of living. The treatment costs are also relatively high.

Radionuclide therapy is mainly used for patients with extensive bone metastasis cancer. It has a history of more than 50 years, which can specifically kill bone metastasis tumor cells and play a lasting analgesic effect.

Experts say that strontium chloride injection is a radioactive drug with good efficacy and low toxicity for the treatment of prostate cancer and breast cancer with bone metastases.