KATHMANDU, JULY 20

Minister for Health and Population Pradip Paudel has announced plans to provide free testing and treatment for diabetes in children across all provinces.

Speaking at a diabetes testing and awareness event organized in Gaindakot, Nawalparasi (Bardaghat-Susta East) today, Minister Paudel said the government is preparing to launch the service nationwide.

'We are working to make diabetes testing and treatment for children free in all seven provinces,' he said. 'There is a common misconception that diabetes only affects the elderly, but children are also vulnerable to this disease.'

'The government should facilitate treatment and frame policies to ensure free care for both children and the elderly. The state must bear the burden of healthcare for the elderly and children. We cannot outsource this responsibility to other agencies. If the state cannot ensure proper healthcare, it cannot be considered a welfare state,' Minister Paudel added.

Minister Paudel further stressed the need for child-friendly health programs in Nepal's healthcare system, highlighting the urgency of addressing hereditary and other chronic diseases through targeted initiatives.

He also raised concerns about growing health issues among children related to screen time from mobile phones, TVs, and laptops. 'These problems are becoming increasingly visible, and everyone needs to be cautious,' he said.

Dr. Sushil Koirala, Country Director of Nura Health Foundation, explained that diabetes in children is classified as Type 1 diabetes. 'Unlike Type 2 diabetes seen in older adults-where the body produces some insulin and the condition can often be controlled with medication-Type 1 diabetes in children means the body produces no insulin, and they must rely on lifelong insulin injections,' he said.

According to Dr. Koirala, there may be a significant number of undiagnosed children with Type 1 diabetes in Nepal. Currently, 600 patients are registered, but the actual number may be higher, with some seeking treatment abroad, particularly in India. He said only five hospitals in the country currently provide treatment for Type 1 diabetes. 'Since the condition typically starts in adolescence, early awareness and intervention are crucial.'

Several children diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes also shared their experiences at the event, stating that timely treatment allowed them to lead normal lives.

The event was organized to mark the 47th anniversary of the Vijay Bikash Resource Center in Gaindakot, with technical support from Gaindakot Basic Hospital and Quest Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd.