A cardiothoracic surgeon originally from Pakistan has been named in the United Kingdom’s New Year Honours List, receiving an Order of the British Empire (OBE) in recognition of his contributions to cardiac surgery and medical education.
Professor Syed Saeed Ashraf, who works as a consultant cardiothoracic surgeon at Morriston Hospital in Swansea, Wales, earned the honor for his services to heart surgery, training of international surgeons, and academic work in the field.
The Swansea Bay University Health Board announced the recognition, noting that Prof Ashraf has consistently combined clinical excellence with humanitarian service. Alongside his work in the UK, he regularly travels to Pakistan during his personal leave to perform complex heart surgeries at the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases in Karachi.
His voluntary work focuses largely on young patients suffering from rheumatic heart disease, as well as Afghan refugees receiving free medical treatment. During extended visits, he also trains local and visiting surgeons, helping expand cardiac care capacity beyond major urban centers.
Reacting to the honor, Prof Ashraf said the recognition reflected the collective efforts of colleagues, mentors, and family members who supported his career. He described his overseas work as a way of giving back to the region where he began his medical journey.
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