JPMC launches free advanced breast cancer radiotherapy Unit

KARACHI: In a significant step towards improving cancer care in Pakistan, the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) has established a state-of-the-art Breast Radiation Bay that promises faster, safer and completely free treatment for breast cancer patients. The new facility is expected to transform care for thousands of women by reducing treatment time while improving precision and patient safety.

Named the Bilquis and Abdul Sattar Edhi Breast Radiation Bay, the project has been developed through a joint collaboration between the Sindh government, the Patient Aid Foundation and the Edhi Foundation. Equipped with advanced tomotherapy technology worth more than Rs1 billion, the facility is in its final stages of completion and is expected to begin serving patients soon.

According to Prof. Tariq Mahmood, head of the CyberKnife Department at JPMC, the cutting-edge technology will dramatically shorten the duration of treatment. Radiation therapy that previously required 20 to 22 sessions can now be completed in just five sessions, reducing the physical and emotional burden on patients.

He explained that the new system delivers radiation with exceptional accuracy, targeting cancerous tissues while protecting healthy organs, particularly the heart. This precision is expected to improve treatment outcomes and reduce the risk of side effects, making cancer care both safer and more effective.

The Breast Radiation Bay will have the capacity to treat around 160 breast cancer patients every day, providing life-saving care to thousands annually. In addition to advanced radiotherapy, the centre will offer a complete range of diagnostic services, including mammography, biopsy, high-resolution CT imaging, and 360-degree helical radiation therapy, allowing patients to receive comprehensive care under one roof.

Medical experts say breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in Pakistan, with Karachi reporting one of the country’s highest incidence rates. They stress that early detection through regular screening greatly increases the chances of successful treatment.

Doctors also urge women to seek immediate medical advice if they notice warning signs such as breast lumps, changes in breast size or shape, skin dimpling, nipple discharge or changes in nipple appearance. While these symptoms do not always indicate cancer, timely evaluation is essential.

Health specialists believe the new facility marks a major milestone in Pakistan’s fight against breast cancer by expanding access to world-class treatment regardless of a patient’s financial circumstances. With advanced technology, free care and greater diagnostic capacity, JPMC aims to give thousands of women a better chance at early recovery and long-term survival.