KATHMANDU: Minister for Health and Population Pradeep Paudel has expressed gratitude to donors for their support in providing medicines for the free treatment of childhood cancer in Nepal.
Nepal has received its first consignment of medicines under the Global Platform for Access to Childhood Cancer Medicines, an initiative of the World Health Organization (WHO) and St Jude Children’s Research Hospital. More shipments are expected to arrive gradually, according to the organization.
Minister Paudel emphasized that since November 16, the government has ensured free treatment for childhood cancer, aiming to prevent financial constraints from becoming a barrier to treatment. He expressed confidence that the international support would play a crucial role in reducing childhood cancer mortality rates in Nepal.
“To control cancer, which has become a major health challenge in the country, we are implementing a National Cancer Control Strategy, promoting both preventive measures and treatment,” he said. “We have made free treatment available to ensure that no child is deprived of care due to financial difficulties.”
The health ministry has plans to expand cancer treatment services across all provinces, with gradual improvements in infrastructure and accessibility.
According to ministry spokesperson Dr Prakash Budhathoki, the received medicines will be distributed to Bhaktapur Cancer Hospital, Kanti Children’s Hospital, Patan Institute of Health Sciences, and Bharatpur Cancer Hospital.
“These medicines will be instrumental in implementing the ministry’s decision to provide free childhood cancer treatment,” Budhathoki said, adding that the initiative marks a significant step toward effective cancer control in Nepal.
