KATHMANDU, DECEMBER 18
Bheri Hospital in Nepalgunj has, for the first time, introduced free sickle cell screening for newborns.
According to the hospital's Medical Superintendent, Dr Nirajan Subedi, the service has been launched using newly acquired advanced diagnostic equipment. Over the past two days, four newborns have already undergone testing for sickle cell disease.
The hospital also operates a dedicated 16-bed ward for the treatment of sickle cell patients.
Dr Rajan Pandey said that the absence of early diagnosis of sickle cell anemia often results in the premature death of children. He noted that if a newborn is diagnosed with the disease, additional vaccinations are required up to the age of five-beginning at three months-along with regular medication. Timely diagnosis, he added, makes treatment both easier and more effective.
Although sickle cell anemia is predominantly prevalent among the Tharu community, cases have also been reported in other communities. Testing of newborns is conducted with the consent of parents or legal guardians.
