icddr,b launches advanced genome sequencing-based cancer diagnostic services in Bangladesh
The service will officially begin tomorrow, and is expected to make precision cancer diagnostics more accessible and affordable across the country
Highlights
- Currently, test results come in 4-5 weeks
- Now reports to be delivered in 2 weeks
- Globally recognised standards to be maintained
- Travelling abroad for test results can be prevented
The International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b) is set to launch its advanced Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)-based cancer diagnostic service tomorrow, according to a press release issued today (23 April).
Spearheaded by the icddr,b Genome Centre, this initiative marks the introduction of the most comprehensive molecular testing service of its kind within the country. Developed to provide crucial support to cancer specialists, the service aims to deliver faster, more accurate, and locally accessible diagnostics to guide personalised treatment strategies.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
This development directly addresses a long-standing appeal from Bangladesh's cancer specialist community to lessen the dependence on laboratories abroad. Currently, many patients endure waiting times of four to five weeks for crucial test results, often incurring significant costs and facing concerns about the reliability of reports. In contrast, icddr,b has pledged to deliver reports in under two weeks, backed by a team of internationally trained experts, state-of-the-art equipment, and adherence to globally recognised standards.
"We are taking a transformative step toward accessible and precise cancer care in Bangladesh," said Md Mustafizur Rahman, senior scientist and acting senior director, Infectious Diseases Division at icddr,b.
He further said, "We are ensuring the highest quality through globally trained professionals, rigorous validation, and world-class infrastructure. Our commitment is to provide cancer specialists and patients with timely, trusted insights that can make all the difference in cancer care."
The service was developed under the leadership of Tahmeed Ahmed, executive director of icddr,b, who envisioned the Genome Centre as a strategic initiative to strengthen national cancer care.
"This was a gap we could not ignore," said Tahmeed. "Our goal is to ensure no patient has to wait weeks or travel abroad for critical test results. We invite cancer specialists to work with us to bring this service to more people who need it most. This is not just a service — it's a promise to deliver hope, trust, and better outcomes for all parties in cancer treatment and management in Bangladesh."
A 2025 nationwide study conducted by Bangladesh Medical University revealed that cancer affects over 100 in every one lakh people in Bangladesh, with breast, oral, stomach, throat, and cervical cancers being the most prevalent. With many patients facing delays in diagnosis, the availability of prompt and reliable testing is paramount.
The icddr,b Genome Centre is strategically positioned to play a crucial role in improving patient outcomes and reducing the national cancer burden. The centre will offer testing for a range of common cancers, including breast, lung, colon, ovarian, and blood cancers, empowering doctors to intervene at the most effective stages of treatment.
