Gurugram Hospital's Stem Cell Therapy Cures Sickle Cell Disease in Children

In a significant medical breakthrough, a Gurugram hospital has reported remarkable success in curing sickle cell disease among children through bone marrow (stem cell) transplantation. The study, conducted over the past decade by the Fortis Memorial Research Institute (FMRI), was recently published in the international journal 'Haemoglobin'.

The study analyzed 100 pediatric cases treated between 2015 and 2024, demonstrating an overall survival rate of nearly 87%. The results were even more impressive for matched sibling donor transplants, with a 96% success rate. Even for half-matched (haploidentical) family donor transplants, the success rate was a commendable 78%. These outcomes are among the best reported globally, marking a major advancement in the management of sickle cell disease (SCD) in developing nations.

SCD is an inherited blood disorder that affects millions of children worldwide, particularly in India and sub-Saharan Africa, where nearly half of the global cases occur. Until now, treatment options were largely limited to symptom control through medications and blood transfusions. The Fortis team's breakthrough shows that a permanent cure is possible, even in resource-limited settings, through stem cell transplantation.

"This is a ray of hope for families living with SCD," said Dr. Swati Bhayana, the lead author of the study. "Our research shows that children in developing countries can achieve survival rates comparable to the best centers in the world when given timely access to advanced care." The study emphasizes that early diagnosis and prompt transplantation are critical for long-term survival, as the procedure is most effective before the onset of severe complications.