09/02/2026
Medical Camp for Thalassemia-Affected Children at KGH, Visakhapatnam
A major medical camp for Thalassemia-affected children was successfully organized at King George Hospital (KGH), Visakhapatnam, under the aegis of Andhra Medical College, in collaboration with Sushena Health Foundation and Saptha Foundation.
This initiative marked a significant step toward providing life-saving care and hope to children battling genetic blood disorders.
Key Highlights of the Camp
🔹 Wide Participation:
Around 150 beneficiaries, including children and adults, attended the camp. Families traveled from Araku, Paderu, Anakapalle, Parvathipuram, Saluru, Bobbili, Narsipatnam, Rajahmundry, Tuni, Samalkot, and even from Odisha, highlighting the urgent need for such specialized services.
🔹 Free HLA Typing Tests:
The core focus of the camp was conducting HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigen) Typing, a crucial genetic test required for Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT).
Though this test normally costs around â‚ą10,000, it was provided completely free of cost to all beneficiaries.
🔹 International Support:
The free HLA typing was made possible through the generous support of DKMS, Germany, whose sponsorship enabled equitable access to this critical diagnostic service.
🔹 Government Collaboration:
The RBSK (Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram) and the District Medical and Health Office (DMHO) played a pivotal role in mobilizing children and families, ensuring the smooth ex*****on and success of the camp.
🔹 Advanced Medical Expertise:
Expert doctors from MGM (Seven Hills Hospital) are leading and performing these highly specialized Bone Marrow Transplant surgeries, offering renewed hope for children with Thalassemia and Leukemia.
Understanding HLA Typing & Bone Marrow Transplant
HLA typing is a genetic matching test, similar to blood grouping, used to identify suitable bone marrow donors—usually parents or close relatives.
When a suitable match is found, a Bone Marrow Transplant can be performed, offering a potential cure for life-threatening conditions such as Thalassemia and Leukemia.
Financial Support & Collective Contributions
The cost of Bone Marrow Transplant surgeries is substantial, but strong partnerships are making treatment accessible:
🔹 Government Support:
The Government is providing a grant of â‚ą12 Lakhs per surgery.
🔹 Sushena Health Foundation’s Commitment:
To further reduce the financial burden on families, Sushena Health Foundation has pledged â‚ą2 Lakhs per surgery, reinforcing its commitment to child health and lifesaving interventions.
A Collective Effort of Hope
The unwavering dedication of Mr. Sarath, Saptha Foundation, KGH social workers, medical teams, and all collaborating partners is truly commendable.
Together, they are transforming a challenging medical journey into one filled with hope, dignity, and the promise of a healthier future for Thalassemia-affected children.
