Prof Dr Adib Rizvi, founder of the Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation (SIUT), has received the British Medical Journal (BMJ) award for his outstanding contribution to medical sciences in South Asia.
The award, conferred during a ceremony in New Delhi, was accepted on Dr Rizvi’s behalf by Dr Sanjay Nagra, co-chair of the BMJ Advisor Board.
Dr Nagra praised Dr Rizvi’s efforts in establishing a healthcare system offering free, accessible, and equitable treatment in Pakistan, calling it a model for developing nations.
Addressing the audience via Zoom, Dr Rizvi expressed gratitude for the honour and commended BMJ’s role in promoting medical education and research.
He urged countries in the region to look beyond political differences for the betterment of marginalised communities and improved public health outcomes.
Dr Adib Rizvi is a distinguished Pakistani transplant surgeon, humanitarian, and the founder of the Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation (SIUT). His pioneering efforts have significantly transformed Pakistan's healthcare landscape, particularly in the fields of urology and organ transplantation.
In 1970, Dr. Rizvi initiated an eight-bed urology ward at Karachi's Civil Hospital, which laid the foundation for SIUT. Over the years, SIUT has evolved into South Asia's largest urology, nephrology, and transplant center, offering comprehensive services entirely free of cost.
The institute now treats over a million patients annually, providing services such as dialysis, lithotripsy, oncology treatments, and organ transplants.
Dr. Rizvi has been a staunch advocate for ethical medical practices. He played a pivotal role in the enactment of the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act in 2010, which legalised cadaveric organ donation and curtailed the unethical organ trade in Pakistan . His efforts have been instrumental in normalizing organ transplantation in the country.
Recognition and Awards
Dr. Rizvi's unwavering commitment to humanitarian healthcare has earned him numerous accolades, including:
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Ramon Magsaysay Award (1998)
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Hamdan Award for Volunteers in Humanitarian Medical Services (2004)
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WHO's Shousha Prize (2008)
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Lifetime Achievement Award by The Sindh Association of North America (2015)
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Nishan-i-Imtiaz (2018), one of Pakistan's highest civilian awards
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