6 return to Maldives after bone marrow transplant
The initiative aims to expand access to life-saving treatments and improve the quality of life for children with thalassemia in the Maldives.
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Six children who underwent bone marrow transplants at state expense under the Aasandha health scheme have returned to the Maldives.
The Maldives government had in 2023 announced that bone marrow transplants will now be provided free of charge under Aasandha. The six children were sent to India for treatment last year.
In a social media on Sunday, the Maldives Blood Service, which operates under the Health Ministry, confirmed the children’s return and highlighted the government's continued efforts to enhance treatment options for children with thalassemia.
The government previously stated that it has enrolled 40 children to undergo bone marrow transplants at state expense. The total cost of the programme is estimated to be around MVR 56 million.
The process of sending children for bone marrow transplants involves:
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Conducting Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) testing to determine donor compatibility.
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Reviewing the test results and assessing the children’s overall health condition to ensure eligibility for the procedure.
The initiative aims to expand access to life-saving treatments and improve the quality of life for children with thalassemia in the Maldives.
