July 24, 2026

A gastroenterology specialist doctor based at Causeway Hospital has described a voluntary cancer screening mission in rural Nepal as ‘one of the most memorable and emotionally rewarding experiences of my life’.

Dr Amrita Gurung undertook the remarkable volunteering programme earlier this year, where she helped diagnose three patients with early-stage cancers and deliver vital screening services in one of the world’s most remote healthcare settings.

“Diagnosing three patients with early-stage cancers was an incredibly rewarding outcome. Knowing that early diagnosis may have improved their prognosis and potentially saved their lives was both humbling and deeply gratifying,” she said.

Dr Gurung volunteered as part of a stomach cancer screening endoscopy programme in the Khumbu region of Nepal, home to Mount Everest. The initiative, organised in partnership with the Himalayan Trust and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality, was delivered at Kunde Hillary Hospital, situated 3,840 metres above sea level.

The programme was established in response to growing evidence showing a disproportionately high prevalence of stomach cancer among the local Sherpa population. Its aim was to improve the early detection of upper gastrointestinal disorders and identify patients at risk of developing stomach cancer.

Over an intensive three-day period, Dr Gurung and her colleagues performed 71 upper gastrointestinal endoscopies, despite operating with limited equipment and resources. Patients travelled from across the mountainous region, with many walking for hours, and in some cases days, to access the screening service.

Reaching the hospital was an adventure in itself. After adverse weather conditions led to the cancellation of a scheduled flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the team travelled by helicopter before undertaking a demanding three-day trek through mountainous terrain to reach Kunde.

And the challenges didn’t end there.

Working at high altitude while dealing with limited resources required adaptability and resilience. The team had access to only one endoscope shared between three doctors, and equipment had to be manually cleaned and disinfected between procedures.

Nevertheless, Dr Gurung was left in awe of the dedication of both medical professionals and patients:

“Despite all the challenges, the dedication of the team and the determination of patients travelling long distances for care was incredibly inspiring,” she said.

Reflecting on the personal impact of the experience, Dr Gurung said: “As a Nepalese doctor working abroad, I have often felt a sense of responsibility to support communities in my home country.

“This experience gave me the opportunity to give back in a meaningful way and has strengthened my passion for volunteer work in the future.”

Dr Gurung said the experience also gave her a renewed appreciation for the resources available within the NHS and reinforced the importance of early detection and prevention in improving patient outcomes.