The Punjab government has taken another step toward improving cancer care by purchasing five new cryoablation machines for major hospitals. The equipment will expand access to advanced treatment for cancer patients across the province.
Authorities acquired the machines on the directions of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. The equipment has now been dispatched to designated hospitals for installation.
Two machines will go to the Nawaz Sharif Institute of Cancer in Lahore. Meanwhile, Nishtar Hospital, Allied Hospital, and Benazir Bhutto Hospital will each receive one machine.
The latest expansion aims to bring specialized cancer treatment closer to patients in different parts of Punjab. It could also reduce delays for people seeking advanced medical care.
Punjab Expands Cryoablation Treatment
Punjab introduced its first cryoablation machine at Mayo Hospital in 2025. Since then, more than 70 patients with Stage 1 cancer have received successful treatment through the technology.
The treatment was provided to these patients free of cost. The initial experience has now encouraged the government to expand access to cryoablation at additional hospitals.
Cryoablation uses extreme cold to destroy abnormal or cancerous tissue. Doctors can use the technique for certain cancers and carefully selected patients.
With five additional machines, more patients could benefit from this specialized treatment without travelling to a single major facility.
New Machines to Strengthen Healthcare Access
Officials said the new equipment would help extend specialized cancer services to more cities. Patients could therefore gain faster access to advanced treatment closer to their homes.
Health Secretary Azmat Mahmood highlighted the importance of modern technology in strengthening Punjab’s healthcare system. He said advanced medical equipment would improve access to specialized treatment across the province. The government has also provided cancer treatment worth billions of rupees to patients free of cost, according to the health secretary.
The latest investment reflects Punjab’s broader efforts to modernize cancer care and improve treatment facilities. As the new machines become operational, patients in several major hospitals will have greater access to advanced cancer treatment.
