KARACHI, July 3: A high-tech laboratory for cytogenetic testing, established at an approximate cost of Rs12.5 million, has become operational at the National Institute of Child Health (NICH).

President of the Child Aid Association (CAA), NICH, Professor Nizamul Hassan, told Dawn that the first sample from a patient registered at the NICH was taken on Monday (July 2) for processing, which was the first example in public sector hospitals across the country.

“The cytogenetic laboratory has been realised at the NICH due to financial and technological support from various organisations, including the Association of the Pakistani Physicians of North America (APPNA). It is hoped that the facility will go a long way in diagnosing childhood cancers and congenital malformations,” he added.

According to the CAA, which is looking after the affairs of the new lab, blood samples would be collected free of cost twice a week (Monday and Wednesday) from patients who are already registered with the NICH. The facility could be made available to other patients at reasonable charges, said Prof Hassan, adding that the lab would also be utilised for safe antenatal practices in the future.