KATHMANDU: The National Public Health Laboratory has begun the laboratory test of sickle cell anaemia and thalassemia disease in Nepal.

The tests began after the Teku-based central lab expanded its service with new technology.

Sickle cell anaemia is a hereditary disease which is caused by mutation of red blood cells.

The sickle cell anaemia test measures the type and amount of haemoglobin in patients' blood and determines the phase of disease, according to Laboratory Director Dr Gita Shakya.

"Haemoglobin capillary electrophoresis is checked to ensure whether one has been affected with the sickle cell anaemia. Three to four milliliter blood is required to conduct this test," Shakya added.

With this facility available within the country now, Nepalis are free of compulsion to visit India for costly diagnosis of sickle cell anaemia.

The hospitals in the Kathmandu Valley have been directed to proceed with the treatment of the disease from Sunday.