Help Patients’ Aid Foundation Support the Silent Sufferers of Cancer

Did you know that cancer claims over 300 lives every day in Pakistan? This relentless disease casts a dark shadow over countless families, with approximately 140,690 new diagnoses and 110,000 deaths annually, according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). The emotional and physical toll is immense, and for many, the financial burden of treatment is overwhelming.

Among the many cancers impacting Pakistan, lymphoma, a severe blood cancer affecting the lymphatic system requires urgent attention. This disease, including both Hodgkin’s and Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, can spread rapidly if not detected and treated early. The emotional toll on patients and their families is profound, as they face the dual challenge of battling a life-threatening illness while struggling with overwhelming financial barriers. Early diagnosis and advanced treatment are critical, yet many are left vulnerable and desperate. Our collective compassion and support are essential to provide the help they need and make a life-saving difference.

In Karachi, Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) has seen a dramatic rise. Data from the Karachi Cancer Registry shows that in 1995, the age-standardised incidence rates were 5.3 per 100,000 in men and 4.1 per 100,000 in women. By 2002, these rates nearly doubled, reaching 8.4 per 100,000 for men and 6.5 per 100,000 for women, highlighting the growing impact of Non-hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL).

At Shaukat Khanum Memorial Hospital in Lahore, NHL is the fourth most common cancer overall, third among men, and sixth among women. The majority of cases come from Punjab (77.56%), with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa contributing 13.60%. This rising incidence, particularly in northern Pakistan, underscores the critical need for effective treatment, National Library of Medicine. (2012).

Advanced Lymphoma treatment and the crucial role of support

Lymphoma treatment often involves chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. Recent advancements, such as CyberKnife technology, allow for precise, non-invasive treatment of tumours, minimizing damage to healthy tissue. Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) employs these cutting-edge technologies and provides treatments free of charge.

Lymphoma, if left untreated, can lead to severe complications or death, placing a profound emotional and financial strain on patients and their families. The Patients’ Aid Foundation plays a crucial role by supporting JPMC, ensuring that patients facing financial barriers can access life-saving care. By donating, you help relieve the suffering of those in need and ensure that essential medical care is available to all, regardless of their financial situation.

How the Patients’ Aid is transforming cancer care at JPMC

The Patients’ Aid plays a major role in supporting JPMC by funding essential medical services and advanced technologies like the CyberKnife and tomotherapy. These state-of-the-art tools enable precise cancer treatment, sparing healthy tissues from unnecessary damage. With the foundation’s support, JPMC is able to conduct over 175 cancer radiology surgeries and approximately 1,000 diagnostics daily, embodying a deep commitment to comprehensive medical care. Your given single rupee can ensure that these services continue to be offered free of charge, making a profound difference in the lives of those battling severe illnesses.

Your generous donations and zakat help sustain JPMC’s commitment to offering free services, including PET CT scans and sophisticated radiology diagnostics. By supporting the Patients’ Aid Foundation, you are funding these essential services that many patients otherwise could not afford, thereby turning their hope for treatment into a reality.

Through initiatives like ‘Karachi k Dost; Jinnah k Sath’ and ‘Bike a Cause’, the Patients’ Aid Foundation raises crucial funds and awareness for various health conditions, including thalassemia and cancer. Your Sadqaah/zakat not only supports these events but also contributes to broader healthcare solutions, helping to provide life-saving treatments and resources

Together we can ensure no one faces cancer alone

It is our collective duty to support causes that make a difference in the lives of those in need. By donating to the Patients’ Aid Foundation, you help sustain essential services at JPMC and ensure that every patient receives the care they deserve. 

You can contribute by making an online donation, participating in fundraising events, or volunteering your time. Your involvement plays a vital role in advancing healthcare access and supporting those who fight against lymphoma and other severe conditions. Together, we can work towards a future where healthcare is a universal right, not a privilege.

To donate or get involved, please visit the Patients’ Aid Foundation’s website, participate in their events, or reach out to learn more about how you can make a difference. 

Your support is not just a donation, it is a lifeline for those who need it most.