Neath Port Talbot Hospital in the UK is planning to deploy an ultrasound machine at its Rapid Diagnosis Centre, for detecting cancer.

The deployment is a part of £1m ($1.09m) funds received in the Neath Port Talbot Cancer Challenge, established in 1997.

The ultrasound machine from Swansea Bay Health Charity costing £80,000 will be used in the Rapid Diagnosis Centre's head and neck lump clinic for detecting suspicious neck lumps leading to various types of cancer.

Consultant head and neck radiologist Dr Shaheena Sadiq said: “Once a patient has been referred by the GP for a worrying new neck lump, an ultrasound is usually the first test done.

“During that appointment we can use the scanner to assess the lump and either give immediate reassurance or, with more concerning lumps, we can use the machine to guide us to safely perform a biopsy.

“Ultrasound is good for both adults and children as no radiation is involved. It also helps us select those patients who need more complex scans, or those that need referral to an appropriate hospital specialist.”

Patients aged 18 and above are eligible to undergo scan at the clinic.

Neath Port Talbot Hospital is managed by Swansea Bay University Health Board.

Swansea Bay Health Charity, the official charity of Swansea Bay University Health Board, is engaged in raising funds for local NHS and supports various projects for improving the working conditions.