Media Release

Udupi, Jun 4: Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, in collaboration with One Good Step Foundation, recently organized an HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigen) testing camp to support children with Thalassemia, a genetic blood disorder requiring lifelong blood transfusions every 3-4 weeks. The camp aimed to identify potential donors for bone marrow transplantation, the only curative option for Thalassemia and many more blood disorders.

Dr Swathi P M, assistant professor in department of Pediatric Hematology- Oncology, stated that "HLA typing is the first step towards identifying potential donors for bone marrow transplant." Dr Emine A Rahiman, assistant professor in the department, provided an overview of Thalassemia and the necessity of iron chelation therapy. Dr Archana M V, associate professor, highlighted the financial assistance available at Kasturba Hospital for patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation.

Dr Vasudeva Bhat K, professor and head of the department, mentioned that over 30 samples were collected from 12 families seeking bone marrow transplantation for cure of their children. He also mentioned that HLA typing is an expensive test, and the costs were covered by One Good Step Foundation, a Bangalore-based NGO founded by Amitha Pai.

Inspiring testimonials were shared by children and parents who had undergone successful transplantation procedures, bringing hope to the Thalassemia community.

Kasturba Hospital, Manipal offers comprehensive care for Thalassemia patients, including a day-care facility for safe blood transfusions, multidisciplinary care, prenatal screening, antenatal testing to prevent Thalassemia births, and bone marrow transplantation.