Dr. Jannatul Ferdause’s entry into oncology was born from a father’s heartfelt wish. Today, as a leading oncologist at Ahsania Mission Cancer and General Hospital, she balances the precision of radiotherapy with the nurturing soul of a mother.

The Daily Star (TDS): What initially drew you to the field of Oncology?

Dr Jannatul Ferdause (JF) : My father was diagnosed with stomach cancer during my internship. At that time, Bangladesh faced a severe shortage of oncologists. While undergoing chemotherapy, my father held my hand and said, “Ma, don’t go into paediatrics; go into oncology. If you can help others, that will be a blessing for me.” His words became my ultimate inspiration to pursue this high-precision field.

TDS: How has being a mother helped you navigate challenging patient cases?

JF: I once treated a 13-year-old girl with nasopharyngeal carcinoma. I navigated her moody phases with the softness and love I give my own children. After she recovered, she told a donor NGO, “If you see my doctor, half your illness is cured; she was like a mother.” That reference eventually helped many other paediatric cancer patients receive rehabilitation and support.

TDS: How do female physicians uniquely contribute to the nation’s health?

JF: Since over 50% of our population is female, having female oncologists is vital. Patients feel significantly more comfortable sharing symptoms of breast or cervical cancer with a woman. This comfort leads to earlier diagnoses and, ultimately, saves more lives.

TDS: What keeps you motivated on your heaviest days?

JF: Initially, losing patients was suffocating. However, the cordial relationships I develop with families keep me steady. The trust they place in us and their words of blessings are the sweet gestures that keep me moving forward.