Kathmandu: A suggestion committee has been formed under the coordination of senior consultant and neurologist Prof Dr Jagadish Prasad Agrawal. The committee aims to identify individuals with Muscular Dystrophy, devise treatment and prevention strategies, and develop a long-term policy and action plan for the rehabilitation of patients suffering from this condition. Muscular Dystrophy encompasses a group of genetic diseases that lead to progressive weakness and degeneration of skeletal muscles.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the initiative to form the committee was taken by the Minister for Health and Population due to the rising number of individuals affected by the disease. The committee comprises notable members, including Prof Dr Rohit Kumar Pokharel from Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Anil Kumar Upadhyay of Muscular Dystrophy Foundation Nepal, Prof Dr Mita Shah Rana of TUTH, and Dr Krishna Prasad Poudel, Chief of the Policy Planning Division under the Health Ministry.
Additionally, Nistha Shrestha from the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division and a representative from the Nepal Pediatric Society are also part of the committee, with Dr Pushpa Raj Poudel of the Ministry serving as the member-secretary. Dr Prakash Budhathoki, Spokesperson at the Ministry, stated that the committee has been tasked with preparing the necessary policy and program to prevent the disease and rehabilitate patients and their families.
The data indicates that 800 people have been affected by Muscular Dystrophy. The committee is also expected to develop awareness programs aimed at preventing the disease, educating families and health workers, and creating initiatives for the social rehabilitation and self-reliance of patients.