Bahrain Oncology Centre Pioneers Sickle Cell and Thalassemia Gene Therapy

The Bahrain Oncology Centre (BOC) has reached a significant milestone by becoming one of the first institutions globally to offer the innovative CASGEVY (exagamglogene-autotemcel or 'exa-cel') gene therapy for sickle cell disease (SCD) and transfusion-dependent thalassemia (TDT). This advancement follows the center's successful accreditation, which acknowledges its compliance with international standards in bone marrow transplant and cell therapy services. The pioneering treatment is set to be administered to the first Bahraini patient with SCD, signifying a new chapter of advanced healthcare in the region.

The implementation of the CASGEVY (exa-cel) programme is a collaborative venture involving the Ministry of Health, Royal Medical Services, Government Hospitals, and the National Health Regulatory Authority. This initiative is in line with the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to elevate Bahrain's healthcare sector and mirrors the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to provide top-tier care for all citizens and residents, especially those with inherited blood disorders.

The Bahrain Oncology Centre submitted detailed documentation showcasing its team's expertise, cutting-edge equipment, and stringent policies aligned with international standards for hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) and cell therapy (CT). After a comprehensive review and an on-site audit of the submitted documentation, the BOC was accredited as a certified center for bone marrow transplant and cell therapy services, having met all necessary administrative and operational requirements.

The CASGEVY (exa-cel) therapy involves a multi-stage procedure starting with an extensive patient assessment. This is followed by a blood exchange transfusion to prepare the bone marrow, after which stem cells are harvested and sent to a laboratory for genetic modification. Rigorous quality control measures are in place to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the modified cells before they are returned to Bahrain for transplantation. Subsequently, the patient is closely monitored as the new cells integrate into the bone marrow and begin producing healthy cells.

The Bahrain Oncology Centre's commitment to advancing healthcare through partnerships with national institutions ensures that the latest medical technologies are accessible to the entire community. This recent accreditation not only highlights BOC's dedication but also establishes Bahrain as a regional leader in innovative healthcare solutions.

The BOC continues to stand out as a premier provider of comprehensive cancer care services in Bahrain. The center is dedicated to delivering the highest quality of patient care through a multidisciplinary approach, utilizing the latest technologies and treatments.

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