The Nuclear Medicine Oncology and Radiotherapy Institute (NORI) has acquired a state-of-the-art cyclotron, valued at Rs1.5 billion, enabling the production of Gallium 68 isotopes for positron emission tomography (PET) scans. This advancement benefits cancer patients within a 200-kilometer radius of Islamabad, making life-saving diagnostic services more accessible.
NORI Director Dr. Muhammad Faheem shared this development during a media briefing at the hospital on Wednesday. He explained that previously, Gallium 68 isotopes were only available in Lahore, causing significant challenges for patients in northern areas, as the isotopes could not be transported due to their short half-life.
A PET scan, a critical imaging test, helps reveal the metabolic or biochemical activity of tissues and organs using a radioactive tracer.
Dr. Faheem highlighted NORI’s patient-centered policies, including a no-refusal policy, which has allowed the hospital and its 19 affiliated Atomic Energy Commission Cancer Hospitals (AECHs) to treat 80% of cancer patients nationwide. The hospital pharmacy also provides in-patient medicines at a 40% discount, ensuring affordability without compromising quality.
He emphasized NORI’s superior facilities and ethical practices, showcasing the hospital’s welcoming atmosphere and transparency, exemplified by a “no gift, please” sign at his office door.
Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission’s Director General of Scientific Information and Public Relations, Shahid Riaz Khan, noted NORI’s establishment in 1983 and its evolution into one of the nation’s premier cancer treatment centers. He commended AECH’s no-refusal policy, citing numerous success stories where patients initially deemed untreatable by private hospitals fully recovered under AECH care.
Nuclear Medicine and Oncology Centre Director General, Dr. Shazia Fatima, highlighted NORI’s role in cancer data registry development, awareness campaigns, and training international fellows. She revealed that Pakistan has around 40 cancer facilities, with nearly half operating under the Atomic Energy Commission. Additionally, 50% of Pakistan’s radiation oncologists work in AECHs, which also house advanced technologies like the cyberknife system.
Dr. Fatima underscored the importance of early diagnosis in reducing treatment costs and improving outcomes. She also noted that the Pakistan Institute of Nuclear Science and Technology (PINSTECH) produces essential medicines, saving Rs350 million in foreign exchange annually. NORI was recognized as a “Ray of Hope” by the International Atomic Energy Agency in 2023.
Success stories, such as that of Mohammad Zia, a 54-year-old cancer survivor, exemplify NORI’s impact. Initially misdiagnosed and disheartened by other hospitals, Zia received accurate diagnosis and treatment at NORI. After a year-long journey, he is now cancer-free and a testament to the institute’s life-saving efforts.
