World No Tobacco Day: Patients’ Aid Foundation’s efforts at JPMC to fight cancer

Tobacco is a silent killer that we often consume ignorantly, day and night, deceiving ourselves into believing it’s just a harmless habit. Despite its lethal effects, tobacco consumption rates continue to rise worldwide, and so do its consequences. 

In Pakistan, tobacco use remains a significant public health concern, with over 160,000 people estimated to die annually due to tobacco-related illnesses. In support of World No Tobacco Day, Patients Aid Foundation aims to shed light on the dangers of tobacco use, particularly its strong link to various cancers. 

The toll on health

Tobacco stands as the single largest preventable cause of death globally. With over 7,000 chemicals, of which 70 are known carcinogens (cancer-causing agents), its detrimental impact is undeniable. Research shows that 90% of lung cancer cases are due to tobacco. However, its impact extends far beyond the lungs. When you use tobacco, these harmful chemicals infiltrate your body, damaging cells and causing many health issues. These include head and neck cancers, bladder cancer, esophageal cancer, pancreatic cancer, stomach cancer, leukaemia, and more. 

Moreover, tobacco’s deadly influence doesn’t stop with cancers. It significantly contributes to heart diseases, strokes, risks of diabetes, reproductive system complications, and even reduces fertility and causes premature births. All these diseases are direct consequences of tobacco consumption. The carcinogens present in tobacco smoke havoc our body’s cells, fostering malignant growths that increase life-threatening risks.

Fact: Research shows that, on average, long-term smokers lose about 10 years of life expectancy compared to non-smokers.

Patients Aid Foundation’s Fight Against Cancer

Patients’ Aid Foundation, a healthcare non-profit, deeply understands the urgency of combating cancer, which is why the organisation ensures that quality treatment services are accessible to everyone regardless of socioeconomic background.

Since December 2012, Patients’ Aid Foundation has been a beacon of hope for countless cancer patients in Pakistan. Through their remarkable humanitarian efforts, they installed a CyberKnife robotic radiosurgery system at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Center (JPMC), the first of its kind in the country. 

This innovative technology offers life-saving treatment for cancer patients. The actual cost per treatment can reach around $1,000, yet Patients’ Aid Foundation provides it completely free of charge. The nonprofit’s goal is to ensure every patient receives healthcare assistance without financial constraints. 

The results of their continuous work day and night have been extraordinary. With the unwavering support of the Patients’ Aid Foundation, JPMC has successfully treated thousands of patients. Between 2011 and 2024, it has enabled the treatment of over 11,000 cancer patients using CyberKnife technology. Currently, they serve around 25 patients daily, with the potential to reach 1,000 patients annually. Here, every individual receives medical assistance and treatment. Therefore, it is regarded as the best cancer care hospital in Karachi.

Join the Fight

This day aims to bring everyone’s attention to the most important day and encourages everyone to participate for the betterment of the society. It is our duty to not only save ourselves but our people as well. Here’s how you can make a difference:

• Quit Tobacco: If you use tobacco, make a commitment to quit. Not only will this decision help you avoid cancers, but it will also lead to significant improvements in your overall health. When you quit smoking, your blood pressure returns to normal, your sense of smell and taste are restored and improved, and breathing becomes easier. Quitting will give you a chance to live longer.

• Spread Awareness: Protect your family and friends by raising awareness about the dangers of tobacco use.

• Support Patients’ Aid Foundation: Patients Aid Foundation plays a crucial role in supporting patients combating tobacco-related illnesses especially cancers with its high-end technology. Consider donating to the non profit organisation, either financially or by volunteering your time. 

Patients’s Aid Foundation aims to provide relief to the people who surfers silently everyday and risks their lives due to financial constraints. Donate your zakat to cancer patients and play your part for the quality healthcare treatment for all in Karachi.

Visit Patients Aid Foundation to learn more about their patients welfare programs and get involved in their health initiatives for cancer treatment and prevention. Your support, whether through donations or volunteering to Patients’ Aid Foundation, can help continue life-saving humanitarian work. 

Together, let’s fight tobacco and save valuable lives. Donate now and spread the word.