WANA (Feb 17) – At a time when Iran is often portrayed in foreign media through the lens of politics and sanctions, a different narrative is taking shape — one defined by medical innovation, international patients, and industrial development.
Three developments from different parts of the country together present an image of progress, highlighting advances in healthcare, medical technology, and industry.
Iran’s Growing Role in Regional Healthcare
Iran is increasingly positioning itself as a regional hub for medical treatment. Once primarily focused on domestic healthcare, the country is now attracting international patients who travel from nearby and distant countries to benefit from Iranian medical expertise and technology.
Growing trust in the skills of Iranian doctors and healthcare institutions is viewed as a sign of expanding health diplomacy in the region.
The city of Shiraz has become a leading example of this trend. Medical centers in the city — including hospitals and specialized clinics — reportedly hosted more than 12,000 international patients over the past year.
These patients sought advanced procedures ranging from complex surgeries and organ transplants to cardiovascular care.
Medical officials say patients receive integrated services that include treatment, accommodation, and post-discharge follow-up, contributing to higher satisfaction and strengthening Iran’s image as an emerging destination for medical tourism.
Domestic Technology Transforming Surgery
Iran’s progress in medicine extends beyond attracting foreign patients. Surgeons are increasingly using locally developed technology designed to control bleeding during operations, particularly in high-risk patients such as people with hemophilia and diabetes.
A domestically produced hemostatic powder, described as capable of stopping bleeding in less than 90 seconds, is said to reduce surgery times and the need for blood transfusions. The powder is made from natural starch using electron irradiation technology, which creates a highly absorbent, microporous structure that rapidly forms stable clots.
Developed after 18 months of research and testing, the product is reported to be at least 50 percent cheaper than foreign alternatives while remaining biocompatible and free of significant side effects. Researchers are now working on next-generation versions, including sheet-form pads for emergency use and ambulance care, as well as antibiotic-combined powders designed to control both bleeding and infection.
These developments place Iran among a limited number of countries using nuclear-related technology to produce critical medical products.
Lorestan Enters the Steel Value Chain
Beyond healthcare, industrial expansion is also underway. In Lorestan Province, the opening of the Fakhr Azna Ferrosilicon Plant marks a significant step toward integrating the province into the national metals supply chain.
According to provincial officials, the project is expected to generate around 250 direct jobs and more than 1,000 indirect positions. The factory produces high-purity ferrosilicon — a strategic material used in steelmaking and foundry industries — with an annual output of approximately 8,000 tons.
The project, launched in 2022 with an investment of about $4.4 million (based on an approximate exchange rate of 160,000 tomans per US dollar), has reportedly reached an estimated value of around $9.4 million and is designed with an export-oriented strategy targeting European and neighboring markets.
A Narrative of Development
Taken together, these developments — expanding medical tourism in Shiraz, advances in domestic medical technology, and new industrial projects in Lorestan — reflect a broader narrative of scientific and economic progress. Through healthcare innovation and industrial growth, Iran appears to be pursuing a strategy aimed at strengthening both regional influence and economic self-reliance.
