The Health and Medical Education Authority at the Imam Hussain Holy Shrine has announced the introduction of cutting-edge British oncology technology—SGRT (Surface Guided Radiation Therapy) by Vision RT—at two of its premier medical institutions: the Warith International Foundation for Oncology in Karbala and the Al-Thaqalayn Specialized Hospital in Basra. This marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time this advanced technology has been implemented in Iraq.

Dr. Haider Al-Abadi, Head of the Health and Medical Education Authority, stated, “The adoption of SGRT – Vision RT represents a transformative leap forward in radiation therapy within Iraq. This advancement will significantly improve treatment precision and reduce side effects, ensuring greater comfort and safety for patients. It also aligns our medical institutions with leading international cancer treatment centers.”

Dr. Al-Abadi further explained, “This technology enables real-time monitoring of patient movement during radiation sessions. If any unintended motion is detected, radiation delivery is automatically paused, protecting healthy tissue and providing a safer, more precise, and more comfortable experience for patients. It also empowers medical staff to deliver higher-quality, patient-centered care.”

He concluded by emphasizing the broader vision of the Health Authority, “This initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to bringing global medical advancements to Iraq. It reinforces the Holy Shrine's mission of combining compassion with cutting-edge knowledge, while positioning Karbala as a hub for specialized and advanced medical care in the region.”

Ebrahim Al-Owainy