A groundbreaking development in cancer treatment has emerged with the introduction of electrochemotherapy, an innovative and entirely indigenous method that enhances the effectiveness of chemotherapy through the application of electric current. This cutting-edge treatment is now accessible in Tehran's public hospitals and is covered by various insurance plans, following years of rigorous research and approval from the Ministry of Health.

Dr. Nahid Nafisi, a surgeon and faculty member at Iran University of Medical Sciences, explained in an interview with the university's Public Relations Office that electrochemotherapy enables chemotherapy drugs to be delivered directly to cancer cells in high doses, leading to rapid cell death.

"This method significantly minimizes drug dispersion throughout the body and reduces side effects," Dr. Nafisi noted. "It is particularly effective for advanced, recurrent, or inoperable tumors, as well as cases where surgery may result in amputation or severe complications."

Dr. Nafisi expressed optimism about the potential of this Iranian-developed technology, stating, "This innovation offers new hope for the treatment of challenging and non-viable tumors." The electrochemotherapy procedure has been successfully implemented in state hospitals affiliated with three universities of medical sciences: Tehran, Shahid Beheshti, and Iran, where specialists are now providing these essential services.

She highlighted the contributions of Professor Mohammad Abdol Ahad from the Electrotechnical Cancer Research Institute, who designed the electrochemotherapy device approximately five to six years ago. Initial research was conducted over the past four years across various cancer departments at Tehran, Shahid Beheshti, and Iran universities, focusing on medical metastasis, breast cancer, abdominal surgeries, and head and neck tumors.

"This technology represents a collaborative effort between medicine, engineering, and electrical sciences, allowing us to align with global standards while also fostering local innovations that have yet to be addressed in international literature," Dr. Nafisi added.

On Thursday, August 28, 2025, the first official Seminar on Electrochemotherapy in Cancer Treatment was held at Iran University of Medical Sciences, in collaboration with the Center for the Advancement of Tuberculosis. The seminar featured prominent professors and marked a significant step in promoting this national industry.

The Head of the Association of Breast Surgeons of the country emphasized the importance of disseminating this knowledge, stating, "If our colleagues in Tehran and other cities are informed about these advancements, it will benefit people worldwide. We hope that soon all Iranians will have access to these advanced, indigenous technologies."