Nestled amid the towering peaks of the Karakoram and Himalayas, GB is renowned for its breath-taking natural beauty, but is also marked by geographic isolation. For years, this remoteness has contributed to a severe shortage of healthcare services, particularly in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
However, the situation is gradually improving as Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) has taken significant steps to enhance cancer care in the region. Since 1960s, PAEC has been harnessing the power of atomic science to fight cancer. Under its peaceful-use mandate, the commission has established 20 state-of-the-art Atomic Energy Cancer Hospitals across Pakistan. These hospitals offer comprehensive cancer care — from early detection and imaging to radiotherapy, chemotherapy and palliative treatment — bringing high-tech healthcare to the underserved.
One such hospital — Gilgit Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Oncology and Radiotherapy (GINOR) — is located in Gilgit city. GINOR provides comprehensive cancer care through SPECT and CT scans for early and accurate diagnosis. Local access to radiotherapy eliminates the need for patients to travel to major cities. Additionally, on-site chemotherapy and palliative care ensure personalised treatment and essential support. From 2022 to 2024, a total of 6,899 radiotherapy patients, 856 nuclear medicine patients, and 1,383 radiology patients received treatment at GINOR.
PAEC trains healthcare workers in GB to ensure the region isn’t left behind. This reduces dependence on outside specialists and keeps care accessible for local communities. PAEC also runs awareness drives, screening camps and education sessions throughout GB, so as to help people catch the disease early.
Through science, compassion and smart investment, the PAEC is demonstrating that quality healthcare is achievable, even in Pakistan’s most remote regions. The work of GINOR stands as a compelling example of how science, when directed toward the public good, can transform lives.
Dr Shazia Fatima
Islamabad
