Pakistan continues to face a growing burden of cancer, with late diagnoses and high mortality posing major challenges to our healthcare system. As the newly appointed President of the Society for Medical Oncology Pakistan (SMOP), I am both honored and committed to building on the efforts of my predecessors Prof. Zeba Aziz and Prof. Adnan Abdul Jabbar and further advancing the society’s mission.
Our journey forward will emphasize collaborative innovation, contextual relevance, and national integration in oncology. We believe that a robust National Cancer Registry is foundational to understanding our unique cancer landscape and shaping responsive, evidence-based interventions.
A key focus will be on strengthening medical education by working in synchronization with the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP). By aligning oncology training with evolving global standards while respecting local needs, we aim to empower our next generation of oncologists.
We will also champion indigenous research, as Pakistan’s diverse population and environmental factors demand solutions rooted in local evidence. This includes the development of national treatment guidelines that are both clinically sound and cost-effective, ensuring accessible care for patients across all socio-economic strata.
Communication remains a powerful tool. We envision SMOP as a dynamic forum where oncologists connect, collaborate, and support each other, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.
Most critically, we must address the glaring gaps in cancer care across government and public hospitals. SMOP will advocate for policy-level improvements, resource allocation, and capacity building to bring equitable, quality cancer care within reach of all citizens.
Together, let us strive for a future where cancer patients in Pakistan receive timely, affordable, and compassionate care. I look forward to your support and collaboration on this transformative journey.

S. Najeeb Niamatullah MD