Kolhapur: The Chhatrapati Pramila Raje (CPR) Civil Hospital is set to launch the state’s first-ever bone marrow transplant (BMT) facility in a government-run civil hospital. Sadanand Bhise, dean of Rajarshi Shahu Medical College, confirmed that the facility will be operational by next month. The unit is expected to become a beacon of hope for patients suffering from blood cancer and, eventually, those with thalassemia.
Bone marrow is the spongy tissue inside bones that produces essential red blood cells (RBCs), which carry oxygen, and white blood cells (WBCs), which fight infections. Blood cancer severely impairs the production of these cells. While approximately 50% of blood cancer cases require a transplant, the high cost in private hospitals — ranging from Rs20 lakh to Rs25 lakh — often puts the treatment out of reach for many.
Affordable Treatment Through Government Schemes
Dr Varun Bafna, a haematologist at CPR Hospital, noted that the new facility will leverage government insurance schemes to make treatment affordable. “Under the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, the cost of Rs10 lakh is covered for a fully matching bone marrow transplant, while Rs17 lakh is covered for partially matching transplants,” Dr Bafna said.
Rising Incidence of Blood Cancer
The need for such a facility is urgent. According to hospital data, the incidence of various blood cancers is on the rise, with nearly 10,000 patients of all age groups in Kolhapur district alone. Dr Bafna added that the hospital currently sees two to three new patients seeking testing and treatment every single day.
Existing Infrastructure and Support
While many government hospitals struggle to offer these services due to a lack of specialised hematologists, CPR Hospital has already laid the groundwork with its hematology day care unit. This unit currently handles detection and management of thalassemia, haemophilia, and sickle cell disease. To support these efforts, the state government recently approved Rs8.40 crore, primarily for the specialised drugs required to treat these ailments.
Importance of Early Detection
Though the exact causes of blood cancer remain complex, doctors emphasise that early detection through platelet counts, hemoglobin tests, and lymphoid checks is key. While the treatment involves significant risks, medical experts stress that blood cancer can be fully cured with a successful transplant.
