Karnataka Government Launches Groundbreaking Haemophilia Preventive Care Scheme
The Karnataka government has taken a significant step forward in transforming the lives of haemophilia patients across the state. On Wednesday, authorities launched the 'Kusuma Sanjeevini' scheme, which will provide free prophylactic treatment designed to prevent bleeding episodes, joint aches, and other complications associated with this genetic disorder.
New Preventive Drug Offers Hope for Normal Life
At the heart of this initiative is Emicizumab, a non-factor monoclonal antibody administered just once a month. This revolutionary drug represents a paradigm shift in haemophilia care. Previously, patients could only receive treatment after suffering a bleed, but now they can access preventive medication that stops bleeding before it occurs.
The programme will be implemented through 36 Integrated Treatment Centres for Haemoglobinopathies and Haemophilia (ICHH) located in district and taluk hospitals throughout Karnataka. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao revealed that during a trial conducted last year, 200 patients including children with life-threatening bleeds received the drug, and remarkably, none reported a single bleeding episode.
Financial Commitment and Expansion Plans
The state government has demonstrated substantial financial commitment to this initiative, earmarking Rs 42 crore specifically for haemophilia care. Within this allocation, Rs 17 crore has been designated for the new Emicizumab drug. While prophylaxis treatment costs approximately Rs 5 lakh per patient annually, officials emphasize that this remains significantly cheaper than treating repeated bleeds with traditional clotting factors.
"The government has already dispatched supplies to all district hospitals," confirmed Health Minister Rao. "We plan to expand the programme to benefit around 1,000 patients across Karnataka."
Patient Stories Highlight Transformative Impact
For families with young haemophilia patients, this development brings immense relief and hope for a more normal life. Nine-year-old Sarvesh M from Jigani has experienced numerous hospitalizations since he was just two-and-a-half years old. His mother, Mallika Munikrishna, described their challenging journey: "From nose and ear bleeds to brain bleeds, we have seen it all. He was often rushed to Victoria Hospital after a fall and missed many days of school."
With the new preventive care approach, Mallika now hopes to schedule hospital visits during holidays rather than dealing with constant emergencies.
Another family from Girinagar shares similar optimism. Their five-year-old son, Yuvaraj G M, was diagnosed with haemophilia when he was merely 3.5 months old. His father, Mahantesh G K, expressed profound relief: "Now we can finally let him play freely after years of extreme caution and constant worry."
Comprehensive Support System
The health department has introduced additional support measures alongside the drug distribution. Dedicated ambulance services will now provide free pick-up and drop facilities for haemophilia patients traveling to and from ICHH centres for both scheduled treatments and emergencies.
At the scheme's launch event, Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar offered words of encouragement to affected families: "Not everyone can afford such substantial medical expenses. The Karnataka government stands firmly committed to supporting these children and their parents through this challenging journey."
Medical Community Applauds Initiative
Padma Shri awardee Dr Suresh Hanagavadi, a haemophilia patient himself who runs the Karnataka Hemophilia Society, praised the government's initiative. "This preventive approach will help patients stay bleed-free and avoid the frequent disruptions that have characterized their lives until now," he stated.
Understanding Haemophilia in Karnataka
Haemophilia (types A or B) is an inherited genetic disorder caused by deficiency of clotting factors VIII or IX. The condition predominantly affects males and leads to:
- Spontaneous bleeding episodes
- Deep bruising
- Joint pain and swelling
- Frequent nosebleeds
- Blood in urine or stools
According to official statistics, Karnataka currently has 2,621 registered haemophilia patients, including 685 children who stand to benefit significantly from this new preventive care approach.
The 'Kusuma Sanjeevini' scheme represents a comprehensive public health intervention that addresses both medical treatment and logistical support for haemophilia patients, potentially transforming their quality of life and reducing the economic burden on affected families.
