Warith International Cancer Institute: An Iraqi model of advanced humanitarian care
The Warith International Cancer Institute stands as a distinguished model of healthcare and humanitarian service in Iraq, integrating advanced medical treatment with comprehensive, patient-centered care—particularly for children and their families.
Identity and Mission
Established in 2021 in Karbala Governorate under the auspices of the Holy Shrine of Imam Hussain (peace be upon him) and supervised by the representative of the Supreme Religious Authority, Sheikh Abdul-Mahdi Al-Karbalaey, the institute is dedicated to providing non-profit healthcare services to cancer patients from across Iraq. A central pillar of its mission is offering free treatment to children under the age of 15.
The institute delivers integrated cancer diagnosis and treatment in accordance with the latest international protocols, while striving to ease the physical, psychological, and financial burdens on patients and their families. This is achieved through high-quality services and the use of modern technologies in radiotherapy, nuclear medicine, and surgical care.
Humanitarian and Medical Services
Free Treatment for Children: As part of its humanitarian commitment, the institute provides free cancer treatment for children under 15, supporting families facing financial hardship.
Comprehensive Patient Care: Services include early diagnosis, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, continuous monitoring of patients’ quality of life, and psychological and social support for patients and their families.
Cooperation with Government Institutions: The institute has signed a memorandum of cooperation with the Iraqi Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs to include cancer patients in disability programs, enabling them to receive additional social benefits such as financial assistance and legal support.
Advanced Medical Capabilities
The institute’s medical teams have successfully treated complex cases, including arterial malformations managed at the Interventional Radiology Center without the need for surgery. It has also expanded its advanced treatment capabilities to include gene therapy and other specialized interventions.
In addition, the institute actively participates in international medical conferences and scientific forums, contributing to the exchange of expertise and the advancement of healthcare standards in Iraq.
Community Impact
Through the Warith International Cancer Institute, the Holy Shrine of Imam Hussain has allocated substantial resources to provide free and subsidized services to patients from various Iraqi governorates. By offering comprehensive care within Iraq, the institute reduces the need for patients to seek treatment abroad, thereby easing both health-related and financial burdens on families.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, the institute aims to expand its role in medical research and professional training, enhance local expertise, and strengthen partnerships with international health and humanitarian organizations. Its long-term vision focuses on transforming healthcare challenges into sustainable opportunities for Iraqi citizens.
The Warith International Cancer Institute represents a pioneering example of combining advanced medical care with humanitarian responsibility. Through free treatment for children, effective collaboration with government entities, and the application of modern medical technologies, the institute continues to alleviate suffering and offer hope to patients and their families in Iraq and beyond.
By: Abbas Al-Taee



