KUWAIT CITY, May 31: Minister of Health Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadhi announced that over 40 stem cell transplants have been successfully conducted in Kuwait for children suffering from thalassemia and sickle cell anemia, with the number expected to grow due to advanced medical capabilities and ongoing government support.

Speaking at the opening of the first Arab Conference on Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Anemia Awareness, Dr. Al-Awadhi highlighted Kuwait's significant progress in prevention, particularly through the premarital medical examination program launched in 2009. To date, more than 400,000 tests have been conducted using advanced diagnostic tools, including NGS technology, and a specialized genetic laboratory was established for blood disorder diagnosis.

A 2019 scientific study confirmed the program’s success, showing a 50% reduction in the risk of hereditary blood disease transmission among those intending to marry. This has led to a marked decline in new cases of thalassemia across all age groups in Kuwait. A new law now requires residents, in addition to citizens, to undergo premarital screening.

Dr. Al-Awadhi emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to improving patient care, including introducing treatments to manage iron overload from frequent transfusions and supporting alternatives that stimulate red blood cell production. He also announced ongoing efforts to introduce gene therapy for children over 12, with plans to include it in national treatment strategies soon.

He stressed that thalassemia affects not only individual health but also families and society, reiterating support for initiatives that enhance awareness, early diagnosis, and quality of life.

Conference chairperson Dr. Najat Rouh El-Din noted that the event is a collaboration between the Arab Forum for Thalassemia Societies, the World Thalassemia Organization, and the Kuwait Blood Association. It features over 49 speakers from 13 Arab countries, 10 specialized workshops, and sessions on diagnosis, treatment, and patient support.

She highlighted the goal of building Arab cooperation, improving patient quality of life, strengthening prevention, and promoting early diagnosis through knowledge exchange, patient support, and unified health strategies.

Dr. Maryam Al-Feely, hematology consultant at Al-Ahmadi Hospital and member of the Kuwait Society of Hematology, said the two-day conference includes activities for patients, medical staff, and the public to raise awareness. She credited the success of the event to the dedicated efforts of all involved and expressed hope for continued Arab collaboration in advancing care for blood disorder patients.