Evolution of Radiation Oncology in Pakistan

Radiation Oncology Health Disparities in Pakistan

“…There are currently 57 radiation treatment units in Pakistan; of these, 26 are linear accelerators and 31 are Cobalt-60 machines, averaging <1 unit per 1 million people. 25 There are 31 radionuclide treatment units and 14 brachytherapy systems in total. 26 There are a few industry-sponsored trials available at large academic centers, but lack of resources and research funding for investigator-initiated clinical trials in radiation oncology makes latest advancements in the field to be implemented at slow pace in Pakistan.…”

“…As of 2019, there were about 80 fellows in radiation oncology in good standing with CPSP. 25 SKMCH and RC has the largest residency and fellowship training program accredited for radiation oncology training by CPSP, currently enrolling 12 residents, two fellow doctors, and one senior instructor. The curriculum of residency program includes daily lectures and didactics, weekly peer review and quality assurance meetings, courses on radiation protection, basic life support, advanced cardiac life support, workshops on communication skills, research methodology and dissertation writing, and annual symposium.…”

“…10 About 75% of the patients are currently financially assisted by SKMCH and RC. 25 SKMCH and RC is now expanding and has constructed one hospital in Peshawar, and a third comprehensive cancer hospital in Karachi is in progress, with architectural renderings finalized and construction underway. All these measures are taken to decrease health disparities in Pakistan.…”