ISLAMABAD — Pakistan’s first observance of Radiotherapy Awareness Day was held at the Nuclear Medicine, Oncology and Radiotherapy Institute (NORI). The institute is a flagship cancer hospital under the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC). The event highlighted radiotherapy’s critical role in cancer care. It also called for urgent expansion of treatment infrastructure nationwide.
Dr. Shakeel Abbas Rofi, Member (Science), PAEC, served as the chief guest. He praised NORI’s designation as an IAEA “Anchor Centre.” He emphasized the need for indigenous development of Linear Accelerators (LINACs). Pakistan requires at least 200 machines to meet the growing demand. Each LINAC costs approximately Rs. 650 million. Local production is therefore a strategic priority.
Welcoming attendees, NORI Director and Chief Oncologist Dr. Humera Mahmood stressed that radiotherapy is the most vital non-surgical treatment for cancer. She cited WHO and IARC data showing Pakistan faces nearly 195,000 new cancer cases annually. Globally, 70% of cases occur in low-income countries. Yet only 30% of patients there have access to radiotherapy.
Dr. Mahmood highlighted NORI’s pioneering services. These include 4D tumor tracking simulation and MR-based image-guided brachytherapy — the only facility of its kind in Pakistan. In addition, she noted the institute’s advanced offerings, including CyberKnife, PET Scan, Digital Mammography, PCR Labs, Blood Bank, Tumor Boards, and telemedicine networks.
The Radiotherapy Awareness Day event also featured a poster competition themed “Radiotherapy: A Fundamental Pillar in Cancer Care.” This was followed by an awareness walk. Moreover, Dr. Rofi inaugurated a new DEXA Scanner machine at NORI. The new machine will enhance diagnostic capabilities.
Globally launched on September 7, 2025, Radiotherapy Awareness Day commemorates the first patient treated with a linear accelerator. Under the theme “One Voice for Radiotherapy,” the initiative advocates for equitable access to safe, modern cancer treatment. It also highlights infrastructure and workforce gaps in developing countries.
This landmark event at NORI not only raised public awareness. It also reinforced Pakistan’s commitment to advancing cancer care through radiotherapy.
Read climate-related news here: https://greenpost.com.pk/
