Abu Dhabi gene therapy frees thalassaemia patient from more blood transfusions

A 43-year-old man in Abu Dhabi has become independent of blood transfusions after undergoing gene therapy treatment, marking a significant medical achievement in the UAE. The patient, whose identity remains undisclosed, had been managing thalassaemia, a group of blood disorders that cause the body to produce insufficient haemoglobin, leading to anemia, fatigue, and shortness of breath.

For years, the patient required treatment every three to four weeks to maintain stable haemoglobin levels, as well as iron chelation therapy to counteract iron overload caused by the condition. Thalassaemia patients often rely on a suitable bone marrow donor for a transplant, but Fahad was identified as an ideal candidate for the innovative gene therapy treatment.

Fahad's treatment involved the collection and modification of his own stem cells, which were then reinfused following preparatory therapy. Under medical supervision since the procedure, he is no longer dependent on regular transfusions. Dr Maysoon Al Karam, chief medical officer at Yas Clinic, emphasized how the case reflects the UAE's dedication to providing advanced therapies to patients domestically.

"This marks an important milestone in expanding access to innovative treatment options and reinforces Abu Dhabi's position as a regional center for advanced healthcare and medical innovation," she stated.

Dr Mohammed Abu Haleeqa, a haematologist at Yas Clinic, described the outcome as life-changing for patients who have long been dependent on regular transfusions. He explained that gene therapy offers a chance to address the disease's underlying cause using the patient's own genetically modified cells, providing an advanced treatment option for those without suitable donors for transplantation.