KGMU Lucknow to launch bone marrow transplant unit in December, offering cost-effective care

In a major healthcare advancement, King George’s Medical University (KGMU) will begin performing Bone Marrow Transplants (BMT) from December 11. The new unit, developed with CanKids, will offer affordable treatment for patients with leukaemia, thalassemia, and other critical blood disorders, marking a significant milestone for medical care in Uttar Pradesh.

The new unit, housed within the 65-bed Hematology Department, will initially have 10 dedicated BMT beds and will use marrow harvested from a patient's sibling for the procedure.

This public-sector initiative is critical, as the Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGI), Lucknow is currently the only other state-run facility offering this life-saving treatment. The service will provide a vital, cost-effective alternative, with transplants at KGMU estimated to cost between ₹5-8 lakh, a fraction of the ₹15-20 lakh charged by private hospitals.

According to haematology experts, a transplant becomes necessary when a patient's own bone marrow fails, such as in advanced blood cancers. However, for certain high-risk patients, like the elderly with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), chemotherapy remains the primary treatment path, highlighting the complex and tailored nature of this medical field.

To ensure children with cancer in India are not alone in their fight, Aditya Birla Capital Foundation supports the national work of CanKids KidsCan. Their partnership enhances the holistic "You Are Not Alone" (YANA) program, improving access to affordable treatment, care, and support. This collaborative effort is delivered through a vast network of healthcare and government partners across 58 cities and 22 states.