Pakistan-born UK heart surgeon awarded OBE
Professor Syed Saeed Ashraf, a consultant cardiothoracic surgeon at Morriston Hospital in Swansea, Wales, received the honor for services to cardiac surgery
LONDON (MNTV) — A Pakistan-born cardiothoracic surgeon working in the United Kingdom has been awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the New Year Honours List for his professional achievements and humanitarian service.
Professor Syed Saeed Ashraf, a consultant cardiothoracic surgeon at Morriston Hospital in Swansea, Wales, received the honor for services to cardiac surgery, the training of overseas surgeons and academic contributions, according to Swansea Bay University Health Board.
The health board described Ashraf as an outstanding clinician who regularly extends life-saving expertise to developing countries. He uses his annual leave to perform voluntary, complex heart surgeries at the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases in Karachi.
Ashraf primarily treats young patients suffering from rheumatic valvular heart disease — now rare in Western countries but still prevalent in South Asia — as well as Afghan refugees receiving free treatment in Pakistan.
During one six-week mission, he worked seven days a week, using Sundays to train Pakistani and Afghan surgeons in wet labs. Many of those trainees have since returned to regional hospitals, broadening access to specialized cardiac care.
“I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive this OBE,” Ashraf said. “This recognition reflects not only my work but also the support and dedication of my family, colleagues and mentors.”
Richard Evans, executive medical director at Swansea Bay University Health Board, called Ashraf’s commitment to underserved regions “truly inspiring.”
Ashraf said his visits are a way of giving back to the country where he began his medical career.
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