Decade-Long Study by Fortis Memorial Research Institute (FMRI) Gurugram Reveals Breakthrough in Treating Children with Sickle Cell Disease via Stem Cell Transplant

(BUSINESS WIRE) -- In a landmark advancement for Indian healthcare, doctors at FMRI, Gurugram, have reported exceptional success in curing children suffering from Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) through Bone Marrow (stem cell) transplantation, a development that places India among the leading nations in advanced paediatric transplant outcomes.

The decade-long study, published in the international journal Haemoglobin, analyzed 100 paediatric cases treated between 2015 and 2024. The results demonstrated an overall survival rate of nearly 87%, with 96% success among matched sibling donor transplants and 78% success among half-matched (haploidentical) family donor transplants. These outcomes rank among the best reported globally, marking a significant advancement in the management of Sickle Cell Disease in developing nations.

The study highlighted that early diagnosis and timely transplants are critical for long-term survival. Performing the procedure before severe complications such as stroke or organ damage dramatically improves outcomes. Fortis achieved these results using advanced transplant protocols that minimize side effects and reduce the risk of Graft-versus-Host Disease (GVHD), a commonly reported post-transplant complication.

Dr. Vikas Dua, Principal Director, Paediatric Haematology, Oncology and BMT said: “Many of these children had been living with pain, repeated hospitalizations and dependence on transfusions. Today, they are leading healthy, active lives. This milestone reinforces our belief that every child deserves a chance at a normal life. Significantly, our results demonstrate that India can deliver outcomes matching the world’s best, at a fraction of the cost, making cures like this accessible to far more families.”

Dr. Swati Bhayana, Lead Author of the study and Consultant, Paediatric Haematology, Oncology and BMT at Fortis Gurugram, added “This is a ray of hope for families living with Sickle Cell Disease.”

Dr Rahul Bhargava, Principal Director Hematology and BMT said “Our research proves that children in developing countries like India and across Africa can achieve survival rates comparable to the best centres in the world when given timely access to advanced care.”

This achievement marks a major milestone for Indian healthcare, with Fortis Gurugram among the few centres globally to report long-term success in curing children with Sickle Cell Disease.

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