WHO claims that cancer cases would rise by 81% in low- and middle-income countries by 2040 because of a lack of prevention and care. Afghanistan is no exception where detection of cancer cases is a big challenge , let alone treatment. FMIC took lead role by initiating the first ever cytogenetic testing in Afghanistan to ensure right diagnosis sand prognosis of blood cancer and genetic disorders. However, low paying capacity of the people hinders their way to benefit from this rare facility.
Afghanistan has very limited or no facilities for timely and proper diagnosis of lethal diseases including Leukemia (Blood cancer). This results in loss of lives and heavy burden on families due to delays in detection of cases and treatment. Moreover, in Afghanistan there was no facility available for diagnosis of blood cancer and genetic disorders. FMIC launched its cytogenetic testing facility in 2020 and now physicians are referring patients but they are unable to afford testing.
Patients referred by physicians will be supported in paying their testing fee and timely diagnosis and prognosis which will help in saving precious lives. FMIC will have a system to categorize patients as per their financial status. FMIC will ensure to provide full financial support to those patients who come from decent economic background specially from far flung areas. This project can be of great help in enhancing access to quality healthcare for the poorest of the poor.
With the beginning of our cytogenetic services; we have already started impacting lives. Naveed (7) diagnosed with blood cancer was referred to FMIC but the correct type of diagnosis was possible only through cytogenetic test hence he received the right treatment otherwise he could have lost his life due to wrong treatment. We believe that this project is is a key step towards saving lives in a country where people are suffering due to conflict for decades. This will also correspond to SDG-3.
