Cross section data for production of diagnostic and therapeutic radionuclides

The status of nuclear reaction cross section data for production of medically interesting radionuclides is discussed. The needs for short- and long-term investigations are considered. Whereas short-term investigations refer to improvements in the utilization of known radionuclides, long-term studies pertain to the development of new radionuclides. The major interest is directed to longer-lived β+ emitters and low-range radiation emitting therapeutic radionuclides. Some challenges involved in the relevant nuclear data work are outlined. (author)