By The South Asia Times

ISLAMABAD - International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi has lauded Pakistan for its growing role in tackling cancer through the peaceful use of nuclear technology, praising the country’s expanding network of cancer hospitals, trained professionals and advanced treatment facilities.

In a video message, posted on IAEA website, Grossi highlighted the rising global cancer burden, noting that more than 100,000 people die of cancer each year in Pakistan, while worldwide deaths have surpassed 10 million and are expected to rise sharply by 2050, with developing countries facing the brunt of the crisis.

Commending Pakistan’s response, he said the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) has established 20 cancer hospitals across the country and developed a skilled workforce to deliver life-saving care. He congratulated PAEC on setting up the latest Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Oncology and Radiotherapy (KINOR), calling it a significant milestone in strengthening cancer treatment services.

Grossi said that during his recent visit to Pakistan, he held discussions with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on expanding cooperation between the IAEA and Pakistan in the peaceful applications of nuclear technology. He also visited diagnostic and treatment facilities at the NORI and INMOL cancer hospitals and inaugurated Pakistan’s first public-sector CyberKnife facility, a state-of-the-art technology for non-invasive cancer treatment.

Acknowledging NORI’s designation as an IAEA “Race of Hope” anchor centre, the IAEA chief emphasized the importance of such hubs in building regional capacity through training and education. He said technology becomes a true lifesaver only when operated by well-trained experts.

Grossi reiterated the IAEA’s commitment to widening access to safe and secure radiotherapy and diagnostic imaging services and expressed confidence in continued collaboration with Pakistan to confront the growing cancer challenge. He concluded by congratulating Pakistan on its achievements and reaffirmed the agency’s support in advancing cancer care nationwide.

Pakistan’s situation: Pakistan faces a significant cancer challenge, with more than 100,000 cancer deaths annually and tens of thousands of new cases reported each year.

Common cancers in Pakistan include breast, oral cavity, lung and colorectal cancers, reflecting trends similar to other low- and middle-income countries. 

Grossi’s comments come amid heightened concern over cancer’s growing toll both in Pakistan and around the world, reinforcing the need for enhanced prevention, early detection and equitable access to modern treatments.