Media Release
Udupi, May 22: On the occasion of World Thalassemia Day 2026, the department of paediatric haematology-oncology at Kasturba Hospital, Manipal will organise a Free HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigen) typing camp for children suffering from thalassemia and other blood disorders. The camp will be held on Tuesday, May 26, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm at the Seminar Hall, Paediatric OPD, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal.
The camp aims to help patients and their family members, including siblings and parents, undergo HLA typing, an essential test used to identify suitable bone marrow donors for children requiring Bone Marrow Transplantation (BMT). Since HLA typing is a highly specialised and expensive investigation, the hospital is offering the service completely free of cost in association with One Good Step Foundation to support families seeking curative treatment options. Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, one of the leading centre for Paediatric Bone Marrow Transplantation services in the region.
Speaking about the camp, Dr Vasudeva Bhat K, head of the department of paediatric haematology-oncology, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, said, “For many families, the cost of HLA typing itself becomes a major challenge. Through this camp, we want to make this important test easily accessible to children who genuinely need it. Our team remains committed to supporting these patients and guiding families through every step of the treatment journey.”
Dr Sudhakar Kantipudi, chief operating officer – Teaching hospitals, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, said, “At MAHE teaching hospitals, patient care and community service always go together. Initiatives like this directly support families facing difficult situations. It is encouraging to see our teams coming together with dedication and compassion to help these children and their parents.”
Dr Avinash Shetty, medical superintendent, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, added, “We are pleased to organise this meaningful initiative. Every matching donor brings renewed hope for a child and family waiting for treatment. Our hospital will continue to support such community-focused healthcare programmes in the future as well.”
The hospital has invited eligible patients and families to make use of this opportunity and participate in the camp. For registration and more information, patients and families can contact 9606035387.