KARACHI: In groundbreaking initiative set to revolutionise cancer care in Pakistan, local NGOs have announced their plan to establish country’s first proton therapy-based cancer hospital here, which will provide free diagnostics and treatment to underprivileged patients.

Hospital, named ‘JDC Shamim Sheikhani Free Cancer Hospital’, was announced at Governor House, where Memorandum of Understanding was signed between JDC Foundation, Sheikhani Foundation and Allmed Solutions.

Hospital will provide free services from diagnosis to final treatment and will be equipped with modern facilities, including proton beam therapy. Hospital will also provide residence for patients arriving from remote areas of Sindh.

Proton therapy is precise form of radiation treatment that uses protons to target tumors directly with sub-millimeter accuracy, minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissue and potentially reducing side effects. Hospital will be located near Numaish Chowrangi area and 20 acres of land are being negotiated for 400-bed hospital.

Governor Kamran Tessori commended efforts of JDC and Zafar Abbas, hailing Abbas as ‘One Man Army’ in social service endeavours.

“Abbas, along with Ali Sheikhani, is pioneering establishment of Pakistan’s first state-of-the-art free cancer hospital, utilising proton beam therapy for treatment of various cancers. I assure him of my unwavering support,” declared Governor.

Zafar Abbas, Secretary General of JDC underscored critical need for accessible cancer diagnostics and treatment, particularly for those unable to afford exorbitant costs associated with healthcare.

Published in The Daily National Courier, May, 17 2024

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