KATHMANDU June 8: On World Brain Tumor Day, it was reported that the number of brain tumor patients in Nepal is on the rise, with a notable increase in cases this year compared to the previous year.
Dr. Rajeev Jha, founder president of the National Brain Tumor Centre, shared that data from over 20 neuro centers indicates that 3,000 brain tumor surgeries were performed in the year 2082 BS, up from 2,600 in 2081 BS.
The statistics reveal a slight gender disparity, with 1,502 males and 1,498 females undergoing surgery. The majority of patients fall within the age range of 30 to 50 years, and Bagmati province accounts for 36.4 percent of the surgeries.
Brain tumors most prevalent among 40–50 age group in Nepal
Dr. Jha emphasized the importance of early detection, stating that early-stage tumors (stages 1 and 2) can often be treated successfully through surgery, while more advanced stages (3 and 4) require a combination of surgery and additional therapies.
The prevalence of high-grade gliomas has increased significantly, rising from 43.1 percent to 55.9 percent, while cases of meningiomas have also surged from 7.4 percent to 27.1 percent. Common symptoms of brain tumors include persistent headaches, morning vomiting, hearing loss, epilepsy, and paralysis.
Dr. Jha noted that Bir Hospital has been offering free brain tumor surgeries for the past two years, a service that will continue until next June. The day's theme focuses on raising public awareness about early detection and reducing the diagnosis gap.
