Improving Access to Cancer Care: Binaytara Hosts Free Health Camp in Nepal

Free Cancer Health Camp in Janakpur, Nepal

On March 23rd, 2025, Binaytara held a day-long health camp in Janakpur, Nepal, providing vital medical services and cancer care to more than 240 people in an underserved community. The initiative, conducted in partnership with Engage Nepal—an organization led by former U.S. Ambassador to Nepal, Scott DeLisi—and local health center staff and community volunteers, aimed to improve access to healthcare in areas where resources are limited. By leveraging Binaytara’s local staff, cancer center facilities, and partnerships with local government and volunteers, the health camp reached individuals who may otherwise not have received medical attention.

The health camp, which ran from 9 am to 5 pm, provided free medical services including screenings, preventative care, and essential physical examinations, improving access to affordable health care.

Supporting Underserved Communities with Cancer Care in Nepal

The camp was staffed by a team of dedicated medical professionals, including seven doctors from Nepal and the US. Among them were Dr. Binay Shah, the president of Binaytara, as well as Dr. Naimudin Rain, Dr. Prishita Sah, Dr. Xiaying Zhu, Dr. Mark Pegram, Dr. Vishwanath Mishra, Dr. Bablu Yadav, Dr. Suraj Mandal, and Dr. Risihi. Binaytara Cancer Center nurses and administrative staff, local health clinic staff, and community volunteers also facilitated the camp’s operations.

Dr. Shah with Binaytara Cancer Center staff and supporters in Janakpur

Cancer Screenings and Health Assessments at the Camp

A total of 244 patients were seen during the health camp, with the youngest being just 2 years old and the oldest 84. The median age of patients was 45. The health camp provided comprehensive health assessments, including blood pressure, pulse rate, temperature, and respiratory rate checks, as well as screenings for oral, breast, and cervical cancers. Patients filled out detailed forms outlining their symptoms, medical history, allergies, and current medications. Doctors then conducted general examinations and prescribed medications as necessary.

Dr. Xiaying Zhu providing care to patients at the health camp

Early Detection of Breast Cancer and Cervical Cancer

Common medical conditions identified at the health camp included infectious diseases, cardiovascular and respiratory conditions, gastrointestinal issues, and musculoskeletal or joint problems. Complaints such as persistent cough, fatigue, headaches, and back or limb pain were frequently reported. One notable case involved a patient who presented with a breast lump. After a thorough examination, she was advised to undergo a mammogram. Several patients requiring consultations were referred to the nearby Binaytara Cancer Center or other relevant specialists for further diagnosis and treatment.

As part of its commitment to early cancer detection, the health camp offered cervical cancer screenings and clinical breast exams conducted in private by a local female gynecologist. To promote awareness about self-exams, doctors also educated patients on the importance of early detection and demonstrated how to perform a breast self-exam.

Doctors and volunteers coordinating patients’ paperwork

Addressing Common Health Issues in Nepal’s Underserved Regions

In line with its goal to provide accessible care, the health camp took a proactive approach by bringing medical services directly to the communities. Rather than waiting for patients to visit hospitals, the camp went to where people live. Dr. Shah, president of Binaytara, emphasized the importance of this approach: “Cancer care health camps are absolutely critical. Normally, the concept is that you establish a hospital, and patients come for care. What we are working on is going out into the communities where patients live.”

By bringing care to these remote areas, the health camp effectively met the medical needs of many individuals who may have otherwise gone without proper treatment.

Dr. Shah engaging with a patient at the health camp

Community Outreach and Cancer Awareness in Nepal

Local community members led the public awareness campaign about the health camp in advance of the event. They distributed fliers throughout nearby communities, including in public transportation vehicles, and rickshaw drivers drove through towns with loudspeakers announcing the upcoming camp. Attendance surpassed expectations, confirming a great need for health services like these.

Binaytara’s Commitment to Cancer Health Equity in Nepal

Binaytara’s health camp in Janakpur represents a crucial step toward improving access, both geographically and financially, to quality cancer care. Raising awareness about the importance of early detection, particularly for people in Nepal’s underserved communities, is also key in improving patient outcomes. The camp provided immediate medical care and laid the foundation for long-term health education, ensuring patients can better understand their health and know where and when to seek timely treatment.

Help Expand Access to Cancer Care in Nepal

Binaytara is committed to reducing cancer disparities and improving access to life-saving care in underserved communities. Your support helps us bring cancer screenings, education, and treatment to those who need it most.

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