Health facilities in Abu Dhabi, overseen by the Abu Dhabi Department of Health, are leading efforts in clinical trials to evaluate new treatments for thalassemia.
Advancing Thalassemia Treatment in Abu Dhabi
Health facilities in Abu Dhabi, under the guidance of the Abu Dhabi Department of Health, are actively involved in conducting clinical trials to evaluate the safety and efficacy of new treatments for thalassemia. These efforts offer renewed hope for thalassemia patients in the UAE, with a particular focus on participation in global studies such as ENERGIZE and ENERGIZE-T, which are assessing the effectiveness of a novel drug named "Metapivat." The Emirates Thalassemia Society confirms that thalassemia centers across the UAE provide cutting-edge therapeutic technologies to patients of all nationalities, free of charge.
Global Trials and Hope for Patients
Dr. Khaled Musallam, head of the research department and founding director of the Rare Blood Disorders Research Center at Burjeel Holding and an honorary professor at Khalifa University and Weill Cornell Medical College in New York, underscores Abu Dhabi's pivotal role as a center for scientific research and advanced thalassemia treatments. The emirate actively participates in global clinical trials and conducts local studies aimed at enhancing patient care and understanding the unique clinical requirements of thalassemia patients in the UAE.
Thalassemia, characterized by genetic defects affecting hemoglobin production, necessitates lifelong management. Patients with the severe form, transfusion-dependent thalassemia (TDT), require regular blood transfusions to survive, which can lead to iron overload in organs like the heart and liver. Dr. Musallam highlights the challenges posed by current treatments and the potential of emerging therapies, including bone marrow transplants, which have shown promise in achieving long-term remission for some patients.
Abu Dhabi boasts advanced facilities capable of performing bone marrow transplants and other innovative treatments, such as gene therapy, which aims to correct or replace defective genes responsible for thalassemia. These treatments are part of global clinical trials that provide early access to state-of-the-art therapies for UAE patients, supported by the Department of Health in Abu Dhabi.
Dr. Muhammad Fahd Abdullah, a consultant specializing in pediatric hematology, oncology, and bone marrow transplantation at Burjeel Medical City, emphasizes the early onset of symptoms in children with moderate to severe thalassemia. Diagnosis involves comprehensive tests to assess red blood cell counts, abnormalities, and genetic markers. Treatment options vary depending on disease severity, with bone marrow transplantation offering curative potential in selected cases.
The Abu Dhabi Stem Cell Center plays a crucial role in raising awareness about thalassemia, a prevalent genetic disorder affecting millions worldwide. Through initiatives and collaborative efforts, including gene therapy and advanced bone marrow transplants, the center strives to advance treatment options and improve outcomes for thalassemia patients in Abu Dhabi and beyond.
Symptoms of thalassemia range from mild anemia in carriers to severe complications such as organ enlargement, frequent infections, and fatigue. Early detection through comprehensive screening programs is essential for managing the disease effectively and optimizing patient care.
Abu Dhabi's commitment to thalassemia research and treatment underscores its dedication to advancing healthcare and supporting patients with innovative therapies. By participating in global trials and implementing local initiatives, Abu Dhabi aims to alleviate the burden of thalassemia and enhance the quality of life for affected individuals across the UAE.