Gaindakot: Minister for Health and Population, Pradip Paudel, announced that the Nepalese government plans to offer free testing and treatment for Type 1 Diabetes, also known as Pediatric Diabetes. This initiative was shared during a program organized in Gaindakot, Nawalparasi (Bardaghat-Susta East).
According to National News Agency Nepal, Health Minister Paudel emphasized that the ministry aims to extend this service throughout all seven provinces at no cost. Addressing the growing prevalence of Type 1 Diabetes in the country, he highlighted the necessity of implementing a children-friendly program to tackle hereditary diseases. The minister also noted the increasing health challenges among children due to the use of digital devices, urging precaution and government facilitation in treatment efforts.
Minister Paudel further advocated for a state policy that ensures free treatment for both children and senior citizens, stressing that the government must support its people in securing healthcare. In addition, Dr. Sushil Koirala, Country Director of Noora Health Foundation in Nepal, explained that Type 1 Diabetes requires lifelong insulin administration due to the body’s inability to produce insulin. Despite the absence of comprehensive data, 600 children with Type 1 Diabetes are currently registered in Nepal.
Dr. Koirala mentioned that five hospitals in the country are already providing treatment for this condition, underscoring the importance of awareness and caution around the disease. The announcement was made at a Diabetes Screening program held to mark the 47th anniversary of the Vijaya Development Resource Centre (VDRC-Nepal) in Gaindakot, supported by Gaindakot Basic Hospital and Quest Pharmaceutical Pvt Ltd. Chairperson Krishna Prasad Sapkota highlighted the event’s goal of raising health awareness about diabetes and the importance of improving diet and lifestyle for better health.