KARACHI: A major breakthrough in breast cancer treatment is on its way as the Bilquis & Abdul Sattar Edhi - Breast Radiation Bay at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC), Karachi is set to begin operations within the next 12 months. This $4 million initiative, funded by the Edhi Foundation, is managed by the Patients’ Aid Foundation (PAF-JPMC) in collaboration with the Government of Sindh (GOS).
Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death among women in Pakistan, with around 30,000 new cases diagnosed annually. While surgery and chemotherapy options are available, radiation therapy remains a major challenge due to a shortage of linear accelerators in the country. The new Breast Radiation Bay at JPMC will provide free-of-charge cutting-edge radiation therapy to 160 patients daily, significantly improving breast cancer management in Pakistan.
Pakistan’s First Surface Guided Radiotherapy & DIBH Facility
Unlike most radiation centers in Pakistan using 2D/3D CRT, the new facility will introduce the global standard of care with IMRT/VMAT radiotherapy, making advanced treatment accessible to all. The center will also be the first in Pakistan to offer Surface Guided Radiotherapy (SGRT) and Deep Inhalation Breath Hold (DIBH) technology. This innovation is crucial for protecting the heart and healthy tissues from unnecessary radiation exposure, especially for younger breast cancer patients.
The Bilquis & Abdul Sattar Edhi - Breast Radiation Bay will feature state-of-the-art Helix Tomotherapy units, equipped with fan beam CT scanners for precise tumor localization and helical-mode 360-degree radiation delivery.
A Women-Only Staff for Patient Comfort
Understanding the cultural sensitivities and patient comfort, the facility will have an all-female medical staff, including doctors, nurses, and technicians, ensuring a secure and supportive environment for breast cancer patients.
Government Commitment & Free Treatment for All
The Government of Sindh (GOS) has pledged long-term support by allocating funds for the maintenance and repair of the radiation therapy equipment after the expiration of its annual warranty.
JPMC's Radiation Oncology Department is already a pioneer, being the only center globally offering free-of-cost cancer treatment using CyberKnife and Tomotherapy. Patients from 167 cities of Pakistan and 15 countries have benefited from these cutting-edge services.
With the addition of the Bilquis & Abdul Sattar Edhi - Breast Radiation Bay, JPMC is set to revolutionize breast cancer treatment in Pakistan, offering hope, dignity, and life-saving care to thousands of women.