Oral Cavity Cancer: Pakistan's Situation and Pakistan's Role Commission on Atomic Energy

 Oral cavity cancer — a malignancy affecting the mouth’s tissues, gums, tongue, and lips — is a serious public health issue in Pakistan. The disease contributes significantly to cancer incidence and mortality, especially among men, and is closely linked to common lifestyle habits and limited awareness. Amid this growing challenge, the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) has emerged as a key institutional player in diagnosing and treating cancer patients across the country.

Rising Burden of Oral Cavity Cancer in Pakistan

Pakistan faces a high burden of oral cavity cancer compared with many regions globally. Studies from major cities like Karachi reveal alarmingly high rates of oral and lip cancers, with tobacco-related products such as gutka, pan, areca nut and niswar being major risk factors.

Research indicates that a large proportion of oral cancer cases occur in men, with lifestyle behaviours such as smokeless tobacco use (e.g., chewing tobacco and niswar) significantly increasing risk. These practices are especially prevalent among individuals from lower socioeconomic groups and in rural areas where education and public health awareness remain low.

National cancer registry data show that oral cavity cancer accounts for a notable percentage of all diagnosed cancers, with some reports indicating around 9–11% of national cancer cases fall under this group. This makes it one of the most common cancers in men, behind only a few others, and a serious challenge for healthcare providers.
Key Risk Factors

Oral cavity cancer in Pakistan is strongly associated with

Chewing tobacco and smokeless tobacco products such as gutka, pan, and niswar, which contain carcinogenic compounds. 

Areca nut consumption, often combined with tobacco.

Poor oral hygiene and lack of early screening.

These habits are widely prevalent across different age groups, contributing to early onset and higher disease rates than in many other countries.
Challenges in Detection and Treatment

Late diagnosis is a common issue in Pakistan due to limited healthcare access, low awareness, and cultural barriers. Many patients are diagnosed at advanced stages, where treatment becomes more complex and outcomes are poorer. Early detection can dramatically improve survival rates, but this requires stronger public health outreach and accessible screening services.
The Role of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC)

While primarily known for energy research and nuclear technology, the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) plays a significant role in cancer care nationwide. PAEC has established and manages a network of cancer hospitals and specialised centres focusing on diagnosis, treatment, and research.

Some of the key institutions under PAEC’s umbrella include

Larkana Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Radiotherapy (LINAR) in Sindh, which uses nuclear medicine techniques for cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Institute of Radiotherapy and Nuclear Medicine (IRNUM) in Peshawar, offering advanced diagnostic and oncological care.

Nuclear Medicine Oncology & Radiotherapy Institute Nawabshah (NORIN), supporting communities in Sindh with radiotherapy services.

Across its 20 Atomic Energy Cancer Hospitals (AECHs), PAEC provides advanced diagnostic and treatment services, including nuclear medicine, radiology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology — often at subsidised rates. These facilities serve tens of thousands of new cancer patients every year, making PAEC a critical player in Pakistan’s fight against cancer.
Impact and Community Outreach

PAEC hospitals not only treat cancer patients but also contribute to public education and awareness campaigns. By integrating nuclear medicine technologies and conducting seminars and workshops, these institutions help improve early detection and promote preventive measures against cancers, including those of the oral cavity.

Oral cavity cancer is a major health concern in Pakistan, driven largely by tobacco and related lifestyle practices. Early detection and treatment remain challenging due to awareness gaps and healthcare barriers. In this context, the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission’s network of cancer hospitals and nuclear medicine facilities provides vital services, supporting thousands of patients with advanced cancer care and preventive outreach. Continued efforts in education, stronger screening programmes, and investment in healthcare infrastructure are essential to reduce the burden of oral cavity cancer in the country.