The Business Bytes
Delhi, November 06, 2024 (TBB Bureau): As National Cancer Awareness Day shines a spotlight on the growing cancer burden in India, it also highlights the pressing challenges faced by patients with blood cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Over 100,000 people in India are diagnosed annually with blood cancer or blood disorders like thalassemia and aplastic anemia. While medical advancements have enhanced treatment options, access to critical therapies—especially blood stem cell transplants—remains out of reach for many.
In response, DKMS-BMST, a leader in the fight against blood cancer, is committed to bridging this care gap. By educating the public about blood stem cell transplantation and creating patient-focused support programs, DKMS-BMST brings hope to patients across India. The organization’s initiatives are paving the way for a brighter future for thousands who need life-saving interventions.
“Through our Access to Treatment program, we ensure that no patient misses out on life-saving treatment due to financial limitations,” said Patrick Paul, CEO of DKMS-BMST Foundation India. “Our stem cell registry serves as a lifeline, connecting patients with potential donors and giving them a second chance at life.”
Blood stem cell transplantation is a highly effective treatment option for many blood cancers. The process involves replacing a patient’s damaged stem cells with healthy cells from a compatible donor. Peripheral Blood Stem Cell (PBSC) donation is one of the simplest yet most impactful ways to support a patient in need.
Dr. Nitin Agarwal, MD, Transfusion Medicine, and Head of Donor Request Management at DKMS-BMST Foundation India, said, “PBSC donation is a safe, straightforward process that takes just three to four hours. Becoming a stem cell donor is a powerful way to make a life-changing impact on someone’s life. We encourage everyone to consider registering as a donor and join the fight against blood cancer.”
On National Cancer Awareness Day, DKMS-BMST urges individuals to take a stand against blood cancer by registering as potential blood stem cell donors. Finding a donor match is especially challenging for patients of Indian origin, who have unique Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) characteristics underrepresented in global databases. In India, a mere 0.09% of the population is registered as potential stem cell donors, leaving patients with slim chances of finding a suitable match.
For those interested in making a difference, registration is simple: any healthy Indian adult between the ages of 18 and 55 can become a potential donor. The process involves filling out a consent form and swabbing the inside of your cheeks to collect tissue cells, which are then analyzed and added to an international donor database.
Patrick Paul emphasizes, “Becoming a blood stem cell donor offers hope to thousands in need. Every registration increases the chance of survival for patients with blood cancers and blood disorders.”
To register as a blood stem cell donor and join the mission to save lives, visit www.dkms-bmst.org/register to order your home swab kit. This simple act can transform lives and bring hope to families fighting against blood cancer.
