The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare recently initiated the second phase of a program titled “Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojna,” designed to assist underprivileged patients suffering from Thalassemia.
The Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT) program
Launched in 2017 and financed by Coal India Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), the HSCT program will continue for two more years, starting from 2020. The HSCT process involves the transplantation of stem cells from various sources, such as bone marrow, umbilical cord blood, or growth factor–stimulated peripheral blood. These transplanted cells are used to treat various conditions, including autoimmune and genetic diseases.
Understanding Hematopoietic Stem Cell
A hematopoietic stem cell is an immature cell capable of developing into different types of blood cells, including white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. These cells are commonly found in peripheral blood and bone marrow and are also referred to as blood stem cells.
Purpose of the Program
The main aim of the Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojna is to provide a one-time cure for Haemoglobinopathies like Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Disease to patients who have a matching family donor.
Eligibility Criteria and Funding
As a means of targeting the underprivileged, only patients from families with a monthly income less than Rs 20,000 will qualify for this assistance. The scheme has also extended its scope to cover patients with Aplastic Anaemia, a condition marked by decreased blood cell production in the body. The CSR initiative plans to provide financial help to around 200 patients, with a package cost not surpassing rupees 10 lakhs per HSCT.
Current Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Disease Statistics
Annually in India, an estimated 10,000 to 12,000 children are born with thalassemia. Data indicates that silent carriers of various Haemoglobinopathies, persons without symptoms but potentially transmitting diseases to offspring, range from 2.9-4.6% for Thalassemia, and up to 40% for sickle cell anaemia, especially among the tribal population.
About Thalassemia
Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder that results in the body having less hemoglobin than normal. Hemoglobin enables red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body, and a deficiency can lead to anemia, causing fatigue.
About Sickle Cell Disease
Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is an inherited condition caused by defects, called mutations, in the beta globin gene that helps make hemoglobin. In people with SCD, the red blood cells become hard and sticky and resemble a C-shaped farm tool called a “sickle”. The early death of these sickle cells causes a chronic shortage of red blood cells. Every year on June 19th, World Sickle Cell Day is observed to raise awareness about SCD at the national level, a day recognized by the United Nations.
