Manama: Brigadier Dr. Shaikh Fahad bin Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Commander of the Royal Medical Services (RMS), visited Bahraini citizen Lujain to check on her health following the success of her treatment under the Gene Therapy and Stem Cell Transplantation Programme for patients with sickle cell disease and hereditary blood disorders. The visit reflects his commitment to monitoring patients and reviewing the programme's outcomes and achievements.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Colonel Doctor Shaikh Salman bin Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Commander of King Hamad University Hospital (KHUH), and Dr. Jameela Al Salman were present during the visit. Brigadier Dr. Shaikh Fahad bin Khalifa stated that the advancements in gene therapy and stem cell transplantation highlight the progress made by RMS in Bahrain and its dedication to providing cutting-edge treatments aligned with international medical standards.
The RMS Commander expressed appreciation for the support the RMS receives from His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, and the continued backing of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, and Prime Minister, as well as Field Marshal Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Commander-in-Chief of the Bahrain Defence Force (BDF). He noted that this support has facilitated medical development and enabled the RMS to implement the latest treatment technologies.
Brigadier Dr. Shaikh Fahad bin Khalifa highlighted that the Gene Therapy and Stem Cell Transplantation Programme is designed to offer curative treatments for hereditary blood disorders and cancer within the Kingdom. The programme's success since its inception demonstrates the capability of national medical professionals to utilize advanced treatment technologies for improving patient outcomes.
The Bahrain Oncology Centre, affiliated with the RMS, announced Lujain's successful treatment using Casgevy gene therapy for sickle cell disease. Following her discharge in excellent health, Lujain has entered the final recovery stage under a multidisciplinary national medical team's supervision, adhering to approved medical protocols.
Casgevy, developed by Vertex Pharmaceuticals and CRISPR Therapeutics, employs CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology, representing a significant advancement in treating hereditary blood disorders and offering patients improved recovery prospects and long-term quality of life enhancement.
This achievement underscores the RMS's progress in precision medicine and advanced gene therapies, showcasing its ability to integrate global medical advancements to benefit patients, further establishing Bahrain as a regional hub for specialised healthcare and medical innovation.