Stem cell transplant reduces morbidity, death in sickle cell patients
Sickle cell disease has long been associated with a significant risk of morbidity and premature mortality, and comprehensive care and treatment. Now, as per a ICMR study, stem cell transplantation can be a beacon of hope for the patients, especially children.
The study reveals that around 20% of kids with the disease die by the age of two, and 30% die before they reach adulthood.
On World Sickle Cell Day, doctors emphasise the need for awareness, stem cell collection and transplant.
Sickle cells have variance and only the severe form needs a stem cell transplant. An early transplant can prevent organ damage, say experts. Dr Biju George, professor-HoD, Haematology at CMC Vellore, says, “People with Sickle Cell Disease may beat progressive organ damage, impaired quality of life, considerable morbidity in childhood, and risk of premature mortality in adulthood with median survival of 58 years. Patients undergoing regular life-long blood transfusions have the best chance of survival and cure with a blood stem cell transplant.”
He added that transplant can come from a sibling or a family member. But, there’s only a 30% chance of finding a ‘matched’ sibling donor in the same family. Patients generally look for a matching donor via a stem cell registry or donor centre – a database of voluntary donors between 18 and 50 years. Dr Govind Eriat Nair, consultant hematology hemato-oncology and bone marrow transplant, Gleneagles Global BGS Hospital, said that if there was a fully Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) matched donor in the family, 90-95% chance of cure is possible in children below 12 years of age.
“But, due to under-representation of Indians in the global donor data pool, patients
Transplant can come from a sibling or a family member. But, there’s only a 30% chance of finding a ‘matched’ sibling donor in the same family
are unable to find a match on time. Also, the awareness about the disease is very less,” he added.
Patrick Paul, CEO-DKMS BMST Foundation India, an NGO, dedicated to the fight against blood cancer and other blood disorders said, “With rising cases, stem cell transplants must be made available to more patients. Misconceptions and lack of awareness among Indians can only be changed by recruiting many more potential blood stem cell donors from the Indian ethnicity.”