The Clinical Trials Summit 2025 marked a major step for Pakistan’s healthcare sector. Aga Khan University (AKU) and the National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS) organized the two-day event. Experts from Pakistan and abroad discussed trends, challenges, and innovations in clinical trials.
Dr. Saeed Hamid, Director of the Clinical Trials Unit at AKU, highlighted the benefits of international research. “Our participation in global clinical trials gives patients access to advanced therapies. For diseases like Hepatitis Delta, these trials offer hope where no approved treatment exists,” he said.
Dr. Bin Chen, CEO of HuaHui Health, praised the summit’s success. “This event created an excellent platform for collaboration and knowledge-sharing,” he stated.
Key Discussions and Panels
The summit featured expert-led discussions on several topics:
- Emerging trends in clinical research
- Regulatory frameworks and best practices
- Ethical considerations in trials
- Community engagement in research
- Rare diseases and their clinical trial challenges
- Patient-centric approaches for better treatment outcomes
Regulatory Framework and Best Practices
Dr. Obaidullah, Director of the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP), chaired a session on regulatory policies. Mr. Abdullah Abro, Chair of DRAP’s Clinical Studies Committee, shared insights on improving Pakistan’s clinical trial landscape. Experts emphasized the need for strong policies to support research and innovation.
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Oncology Clinical Trials and Global Inclusion
Dr. Khalid Matin, a professor at VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center in the USA, stressed the importance of global cancer research. “We must ensure the inclusion of diverse patient populations in oncology trials,” he said. He called for better access to clinical trials as a standard part of cancer care.
Dr. Shalaan Beg, an adjunct associate professor at the University of Texas, emphasized the summit’s role in aligning regulators and industry leaders. “Bringing more trials to Pakistan requires coordination between government bodies, pharmaceutical companies, and clinical research units,” he said.
Future of Clinical Trials in Pakistan
Experts agreed that Pakistan has the potential to become a major hub for clinical research. Strengthening research infrastructure, improving regulations, and encouraging patient participation can lead to significant progress. The summit concluded with a call for continued collaboration to advance healthcare through clinical trials.
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