- According to Rafael Grossi, more than 100,000 people die from cancer in Pakistan.
- Cancer deaths are expected to increase by 75% by 2050, IAEA chief warns.
- He adds that more than 10 million people die from cancer each year worldwide.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has commended Pakistan for its efforts to combat cancer by providing medical facilities through the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), the Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday.
In a video statement, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said that more than 100,000 people die from cancer in Pakistan every year, and the number exceeds 10 million worldwide.
Warning that cancer deaths are expected to increase by 75% by 2050, Grossi stressed that developing countries were most affected and therefore more needed to be done.
“That’s why I launched the IAEA’s Rays of Hope initiative, purchasing radiotherapy machines, conducting life-saving research and providing training and education around the world,” he noted.
Highlighting Pakistan’s efforts in this regard, the IAEA chief said PAEC had established 21 cancer hospitals in the country and trained a cadre of professionals and congratulated Pakistani authorities for establishing the Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Oncology and Radiotherapy (Nori).
Recalling his visit to Pakistan, Grossi said he discussed expanding Pakistan-IAEA cooperation in peaceful uses of nuclear technology with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Noting that he saw diagnostic and treatment facilities, as well as the inauguration of the country’s first CyberKnife facility, the IAEA Director General said he was committed to expanding access to safe and secure radiotherapy and diagnostic imaging services.
“Technology only becomes a lifeline in the hands of well-trained experts,” he remarked.
Congratulating Pakistan on this milestone, Grossi said the IAEA looks forward to continuing its vital work in combating the cancer crisis.
