- Rafael Grossi says over 100,000 people die of cancer in Pakistan.
- Cancer deaths are expected to increase by 75% by 2050, the IAEA chief warns.
- He adds that more than 10 million die of cancer every year globally.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has commended Pakistan for its efforts to fight cancer through the provision of medical facilities through the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), the Ministry of External Affairs said on Wednesday.
In a video statement, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said more than 100,000 people die of cancer in Pakistan every year, and the number exceeds 10 million globally.
Grossi warned that cancer deaths were expected to increase by 75% by 2050, stressing that developing countries were the hardest hit and that more must be done.
“That is why I launched the IAEA’s ‘Rays of Hope’ initiative, acquiring radiation therapy machines, conducting life-saving research and providing training and education worldwide,” he noted.
Highlighting Pakistan’s efforts in this regard, the IAEA chief said that PAEC has established 21 cancer hospitals in the country and trained a fleet of professionals and congratulated the Pakistani authority for establishing the Institute of Nuclear Medicine Oncology and Radiotherapy (Nori).
Recalling his visit to Pakistan, Grossi said he discussed expanded Pakistan-IAEA cooperation on the peaceful use of nuclear technology with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Noting that he witnessed diagnostic and treatment facilities, along with the inauguration of the country’s first CyberKnife facility, the IAEA director general said he was determined to expand access to safe and secure radiotherapy and imaging services.
“Technology becomes a lifesaver only in the hands of well-trained experts,” he noted.
Congratulating Pakistan on this remarkable milestone, Grossi said the IAEA looks forward to continuing its vital work in tackling the cancer crisis.
