The National Brain Tumor Center (NBTC) at Bir Hospital has reported a rise in the number of brain tumour patients receiving treatment in Nepal, according to new national data released on World Brain Tumor Day (today).
The centre, which operates under the National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS), published findings from a national multi-centre brain tumour registry compiled from more than 20 neurosurgical centres across the country.
According to the report, around 3,000 patients received treatment for brain tumours in 2082, representing an increase of about 16% compared with 2081. The data show that glioma remained the most commonly diagnosed brain tumour, while the proportion of high-grade glioma cases increased during the review period.
The registry also found that brain tumours affected men and women in nearly equal numbers. Most patients were aged between 30 and 50 years, and the highest number of cases was reported from Bagmati Province.
NBTC founding chair Dr. Rajiv Jha said growing awareness and timely diagnosis were essential to improving survival rates among brain tumour patients. “Many lives can be saved through early detection and treatment,” he said, marking World Brain Tumor Day.
During the event, the centre honoured neurosurgeon Dr. Chardham Budhathoki with the title “Champion of NeuroOncology Care 2026” in recognition of his contribution to the development of neuro-oncology services in Nepal.
The centre also highlighted the need for advanced surgical facilities, radiosurgery technology and intraoperative tumour-fluorescence systems to improve treatment for complex brain tumours.
NBTC announced that Bir Hospital will continue its programme of waiving surgical fees for brain tumour operations until the end of June, aiming to support patients facing financial difficulties.