Health Minister Paudel promises increased access to treatment of pediatric cancer

KATHMANDU: Minister for Health and Population, Pradeep Paudel, has expressed gratitude to the donor agencies assisting Nepal in securing medicines for the free treatment of childhood cancer.

Nepal has received its first shipment of medicines for childhood cancer treatment through the Global Platform for Access to Childhood Cancer Medicines.

The platform, launched by the World Health Organization (WHO) and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, aims to provide critical support in addressing childhood cancer.

WHO has stated that additional shipments of medicines will gradually arrive in Nepal.

Minister Paudel in his message today said the Ministry of Health and Population has been providing free treatment for childhood cancer since November 16, 2024, ensuring that no child dies due to lack of access to treatment. He hoped that this assistance would significantly reduce the mortality rate caused by pediatric cancer in Nepal.

“Childhood cancer is becoming one of the country’s major health challenges. We are focusing not only on treatment but also on prevention through the implementation of the Nepal Cancer Control Strategy,” he said. The government is committed to expanding cancer treatment services across the country, he added.

According to Ministry spokesperson Dr. Prakash Budhathoki, the medicines will be distributed to Bhaktapur Cancer Hospital, Kanti Children’s Hospital, Patan Academy of Health Sciences, and Bharatpur Cancer Hospital. He expressed hope that the arrival of these medicines will play a significant role in the treatment of childhood cancer in Nepal.