23 June 2024, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran – Since the arrival of a new magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machine in Hajar Hospital, Shahrekord, cancer has been detected early enough in dozens of patients to allow them to receive less aggressive treatment – ultimately saving their lives. It is one of 6 state-of-the-art MRI machines generously funded by the Government of Japan and strategically placed in key referral hospitals identified by the Iranian Ministry of Health and Medical Education.

Representatives of WHO and the Embassy of Japan in the Islamic Republic of Iran visited Hajar Hospital on 13 June 2024 to witness the impact the MRI machine has had since its donation in October 2023. Before, patients in Shahrekord and nearby districts had to travel long distances for diagnostic services. Now, access to an advanced 1.5 Tesla MRI machine is available at Hajar Hospital and at Kosar Hospital, Semnan; Pasteur Hospital, Bam; 12 Farvardin Hospital, Kahnooj; Imam Ali Hospital, Andimeshk; and Shohada Hospital, Neyriz.