Doctors at Musarrat Shaukat Medical Complex recently performed a successful tumor surgery in Timergara, removing a massive 23.8-kilogram abdominal tumor from a 45-year-old woman from Dir. The patient is now stable and recovering well. This life-saving procedure highlights the growing surgical capabilities in Pakistan’s remote regions, where access to specialized care remains limited.
Dr. Musarrat Shaukat, one of the few female surgeons in the area, led the two-hour operation with her team. According to hospital administrator Akhtar Ali, the surgery went smoothly and without complications. Over the past six months, the hospital has completed eight similar procedures, demonstrating its expanding capacity to manage complex medical cases. Clearly, tumor surgery in Timergara is becoming a vital service for patients who cannot travel to major cities.
Meanwhile, Pakistan continues to face a rising burden of tumor-related diseases. The National Cancer Registry recorded over 269,000 cancer cases between 2015 and 2019, with more than half affecting women. Breast, ovarian, and oral cancers are the most common among female patients, while oral, liver, and colorectal cancers dominate among men. Furthermore, Globocan 2022 reported 185,748 new cancer cases in Pakistan last year alone. Lip and oral cavity tumors ranked among the top three for both genders.
Fortunately, regional hospitals like Musarrat Shaukat Medical Complex are stepping up. By offering advanced procedures such as tumor surgery in Timergara, they are improving access to life-saving care for underserved communities. As cancer rates continue to rise, timely intervention can reduce complications and improve survival outcomes. Moreover, the hospital’s consistent performance reflects broader progress in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s healthcare infrastructure. With more trained specialists and better equipment, patients no longer need to travel far for critical treatment.
