Iranian pediatric oncologist Ghalibafian honored as global leader in cancer care
Mitra Ghalibafian, a leading Iranian pediatric oncologist and head of radiation oncology at Mahak Hospital, was named one of the distinguished women leaders in the SIOP Almanac 2025, a global recognition for women in pediatric oncology.
Ghalibafian, the founder of Iran’s pediatric neuro-oncology program, has played a pivotal role in advancing cancer treatment for children, annually treating over 100 patients with brain tumors. Her selection by the International Society of Pediatric Oncology (SIOP) highlights her contributions to improving cancer care and reducing treatment disparities worldwide.
With a career spanning over two decades, Ghalibafian has been instrumental in establishing specialized radiotherapy for children in Iran. Her collaborations with medical centers in Canada and other countries have facilitated access to cutting-edge treatments for Iranian children battling cancer.
After earning her medical degree from Iran University of Medical Sciences, Ghalibafian pursued further studies in Austria, gaining expertise in pathology and biomedical engineering. She later returned to Iran, dedicating herself to healthcare in underserved regions and actively participating in the World Health Organization’s polio eradication program.
In 2006, she founded Iran’s first dedicated pediatric radiotherapy center, offering advanced treatment options to over 200 young patients annually. Her groundbreaking work in neuro-oncology has significantly improved outcomes for children with brain tumors, reinforcing her impact on pediatric cancer care in resource-limited settings.