Karachi: Advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), immunotherapy and molecularly targeted cancer treatments will not be enough to reverse Pakistan’s growing cancer burden unless they are backed by strong clinical judgment, health system capacity, policy support and patient awareness, oncologists said on Friday.
Speaking at the 27th annual cancer congress in Karachi, experts said that while breakthroughs in cancer treatment are transforming outcomes globally, their impact in Pakistan remains limited by uneven availability, late diagnosis and weak preventive care.
Immunotherapy and precision treatments, which allow therapies to be tailored to individual patients based on tumour biology, were highlighted as major advances reshaping modern oncology.
However, oncologists noted that access to these therapies in Pakistan is largely confined to a few centres, putting them beyond the reach of most patients and underscoring the need for greater public sector investment and supportive policies.
Artificial intelligence is also increasingly being used to improve cancer detection, imaging accuracy, treatment planning and clinical decision-making.
Experts said AI has the potential to support overburdened health systems by improving efficiency and precision, but warned that it cannot substitute for trained specialists, multidisciplinary care and informed patients.
Alongside treatment innovations, speakers repeatedly stressed the importance of prevention and early diagnosis, pointing out that a significant number of cancers in Pakistan are linked to modifiable risk factors and are often detected at advanced stages.
Oncologists called for stronger public awareness about lifestyle changes, including avoiding tobacco and betel nut, adopting healthier diets, increasing physical activity and reducing exposure to environmental pollutants, saying such measures could significantly reduce the incidence of preventable cancers.
They also emphasised the need to promote early screening and timely diagnosis, particularly for breast, cervical, colorectal and oral cancers, where early detection can dramatically improve survival and lower treatment costs.
Addressing the opening session, PSCO President Dr Azhar Rashid said meaningful progress against cancer would require coordinated action across clinical care, research, public policy and community awareness, rather than reliance on technology alone.
The congress also highlighted the human dimensions of cancer care, with discussions on physician wellbeing, emotional intelligence and the specific challenges faced by women with cancer, including delayed diagnosis and limited access to support services.
As the three-day meeting continues, participants said Pakistan’s cancer response must balance innovation with prevention, awareness and system strengthening if emerging therapies are to translate into real gains for patients.
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