New study published in the Lancet Calls for Unified Cancer Registry in Pakistan
AKU
AKU
Media Source: Trade Chronicle (Pakistan)
Date: 4 July 2025
A recent study published in The Lancet Regional Health – Southeast Asia emphasises the urgent need for a unified national cancer registry in Pakistan to enhance cancer surveillance and policymaking. The study, co-authored by experts from Aga Khan University (AKU) and other institutions, highlights the country’s significant cancer burden. The Aga Khan University Cancer Registry (AKU-CR), established in 2009, exemplifies a successful model, having recorded over 71,900 cases. Despite initiatives such as the National Action Plan for Non-Communicable Diseases, achieving uniform data collection remains a significant challenge. Experts emphasise that a national registry is essential for addressing the rising incidence of cancer in Pakistan by enhancing public health efforts and resource allocation.