KMC Manipal inaugurates paediatric bone marrow transplant and cellular therapy division
Udupi- Marking World Sickle Cell Awareness Day, the Kasturba Medical College (KMC) and Hospital, Manipal, inaugurated the Division of Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, Haematology and Immunology (BHIM) under its Department of Paediatric Oncology to offer advanced treatments.
The inauguration ceremony was held on Wednesday at the Smt. Sharada Madhava Pai Memorial OPD Block at Kasturba Hospital, Manipal. Dr Sharath K Rao, Vice-Chancellor of the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal, attended the event as the chief guest.
Dr Sudhakar Kantipudi, Chief Operating Officer of MAHE’s teaching hospitals, and Dr Anil K. Bhat, Dean of Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, were also present on the occasion.
The newly established department will provide comprehensive care for children suffering from complex haematological, immunological, and cancer-related disorders who require advanced treatment modalities such as bone marrow transplantation and cellular therapy.
The initiative reflects the commitment of KMC, Manipal, and Kasturba Hospital to providing state-of-the-art treatment facilities and ensuring better treatment outcomes for children battling life-threatening blood disorders, immune system deficiencies, and cancer.
Meanwhile, addressing the gathering at the event, Dr Rao highlighted the importance of developing highly specialised centres of excellence that integrate clinical expertise, research, and education to meet the growing healthcare needs of the region and the nation, according to a TOI report.
Dr Vasudeva Bhat K., Professor and Head of the Department of Pediatric Oncology, stated that the department aims to provide multidisciplinary and patient-centred care through a team of well-trained healthcare professionals, supported by donations and modern technology.
Moreover, Dr Archana MV, Associate Professor and Division In-charge of the Department of Pediatric Oncology, outlined the vision for the new unit. She emphasised its role in providing comprehensive transplant services, cellular therapy, and long-term follow-up care.
She also highlighted the importance of launching the division in conjunction with World Sickle Cell Awareness Day, reinforcing the institute's commitment to addressing hereditary blood disorders through awareness, early diagnosis, and advanced treatment options.
