Gene sequencing for breast cancer now available in Nepal, cutting costs and delays

Kathmandu: Gene sequencing for breast cancer, previously unavailable in Nepal, is now offered at the National Public Health Laboratory.

Previously, samples had to be sent abroad for testing, but following a directive from Minister for Health and Population, Pradeep Poudel, the laboratory has successfully implemented local testing. Now, samples from across the country can be tested at the lab, reducing costs and time.

Testing, which previously cost up to Rs 60,000 in India, will now be available for Rs 30,000 in Nepal.

According to Director of the National Public Health Laboratory Ranjan Raj Bhatta, the test helps detect genetic predispositions to breast cancer, enabling early treatment and potentially saving lives.

Additionally, the laboratory plans to add four more cancer-related tests in the future.