MGM Cancer Institute launches Anamaya Program across Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh

New Delhi: MGM Cancer Institute has introduced the Anamaya Program, an initiative aimed at addressing thalassemia and other blood disorders in children. The program, which began its rollout in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, seeks to provide comprehensive support for affected children, starting with those diagnosed with thalassemia.

Thalassemia, a genetic condition that impairs hemoglobin production in red blood cells, is prevalent in South India. The Anamaya Program has conducted extensive screenings, identifying about 25 children with thalassemia out of approximately 5,000 screened over the past six months. These children are now receiving further evaluation and treatment at MGM Cancer Institute, with support from the Saptha Foundation. Treatment costs are covered through government funds, NGO contributions, and hospital concessions.

In Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, around 10,000 individuals suffer from thalassemia major, contributing to a national total of nearly 100,000 cases. Without treatment, thalassemia significantly shortens life expectancy, with many children not surviving past 15 years due to complications from frequent blood transfusions and iron overload. Bone marrow transplantation (BMT) remains the only definitive cure, offering a chance for a normal life post-treatment.

The Anamaya Program aims to enhance access to screening and care, improve healthcare infrastructure, and invest in research for novel treatments, including gene therapy. The program will initially focus on thalassemia, addressing gaps in screening, diagnosis, and treatment. It will also extend to other childhood cancers and blood disorders, ensuring early detection and intervention.

Dr. M Deenadayalan, Head of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, Blood and Marrow Transplantation at MGM Cancer Institute, emphasized, “Thalassemia is a significant public health concern in India, especially in the southern regions. National surveys indicate beta-thalassemia shows a notable prevalence, with carrier rates estimated at around 3-4% nationwide. However, these rates can surge up to 17% within certain communities, particularly those with high consanguinity or among tribal populations.”

“This program will be a bridge to the existing gap of uneven access to screening, identifying, and treating thalassemia, other blood disorders and cancers in children. As phase one of the program, our focus will be on thalassemia, which requires lifelong medical care, imposing a strain on the children and families. A multi-pronged approach is necessary, strengthening carrier screening, prenatal diagnosis, and genetic counselling, along with improved healthcare infrastructure and trained professionals,” he added.

Dr. M A Raja, Director of Oncology Services, MGM Cancer Institute, highlighted, “Thalassemia is a disease diagnosed between birth and two years, and approximately 15000 babies are born in India every year with this. We in India have the highest number of thalassemia cases in the world. Proper screening and counseling can help to reduce the incidence of this disease because marriage among close relatives who are carriers without the disease can give birth to babies with the disease.”

He added, “Once a diagnosis is made, the standard treatment is only repeated blood transfusions and supportive care. However, this is not curative and can cause heart failure, liver toxicity, and premature deaths. The ONLY curative option is a bone marrow transplant. MGM Cancer Institute is well equipped to offer this treatment to many unfortunate children affected by this disease.”

The program’s launch was attended by key figures including Dr. M A Raja, Dr. Ananth Mohan Pai, Siva, Dr. Vimal Kumar G, and Dr. Rishab Bharadwaj. MGM Cancer Institute is committed to transforming the lives of children with blood disorders through dedicated care and innovative treatment options.