KATHMANDU, Nov 22: Bir Hospital’s genetic lab, which previously tested for limited hereditary conditions, is now preparing to expand services to include cancer and other genetic disorders.
The hospital is set to introduce “next-generation gene sequencing” for cancer, a service not yet available in Nepal. Until now, patients with cancer and other genetic diseases faced difficulties due to limited testing options.
Dr Nilam Thakur, head of Bir Hospital’s Genetics Department, said the lack of cancer and genetic testing in Nepal has motivated the lab’s expansion.
She stated that efforts are underway to acquire the necessary next-generation gene sequencing machine and related laboratory materials.
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Dr Thakur said that the proposal for the machine was submitted four years ago to the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Finance, and the National Planning Commission. After repeated attempts, the proposal is expected to be approved this year.
“Discussions are ongoing with some donor agencies and the Ministry of Health. This time we expect support,” Dr Thakur said, “A second phase of the meeting will be held soon, after which the process will move forward.”
Approximately Rs 100–150 million is required for the machine and related equipment. Once installed, the lab will be able to test for various types of cancers and hereditary conditions and determine whether individuals carry familial or hereditary cancer genes.
Genetic testing for cancer will allow early interventions and faster identification of appropriate treatments for existing cancer cases, Dr Thakur said.
“This testing can detect cancer risk in advance and guide accurate treatment for existing cases,” she said.
Currently, many cancer patients in Nepal undergo expensive tests in India due to the lack of local facilities. Delays in receiving results often delay treatment, and costs range from Rs 40,000 to 100,000 per test. “If done in our lab, the same tests will be much more affordable,” Dr Thakur said.
Nepal’s limited gene sequencing facilities previously allowed only a narrow range of hereditary disorders to be identified. With the new machine, conditions such as infertility, recurrent miscarriages, and various genetic diseases can be diagnosed.
Dr Thakur emphasized that expanding testing capabilities will help identify all types of genetic conditions and standardize treatments across the country.
