Udupi: Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Manipal, and the Department of Paediatric Oncology, Kasturba Medical College and Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, inaugurated the Division of Paediatric Bone Marrow Transplantation & Cellular Therapy, Hematology and Immunology (BHIM) and observed the World Sickle Cell Awareness Day. The inauguration ceremony was held at the Smt Sharada Madhav Pai Memorial OPD Block, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, on Wednesday.The newly established division provides comprehensive care for children with complex hematological, immunological, and oncological disorders requiring advanced therapies such as bone marrow transplantation and cellular therapy. The initiative reflects KMC, Manipal, and Kasturba Hospital’s commitment to delivering state-of-the-art treatment facilities and improving outcomes for children suffering from life-threatening blood disorders, immune deficiencies, and cancers.Dr Sharath K Rao, vice-chancellor, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal, was the guest. In his address, Dr Rao highlighted the importance of developing highly specialised centres of excellence that combine clinical expertise, research, and education to meet the growing healthcare needs of the region and the nation.Dr Vasudeva Bhat K, professor and head, department of paediatric oncology, said that the division aims to offer multidisciplinary, patient-centred care supported by philanthropic support and cutting-edge technology under a highly trained healthcare professional team.Dr Archana MV, in-charge of the division and associate professor, department of paediatric oncology, outlined the vision of the new unit, emphasising its role in providing comprehensive transplant services, cellular therapies, and long-term follow-up care. She also highlighted the significance of launching the division in conjunction with World Sickle Cell Awareness Day, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to addressing inherited blood disorders through awareness, early diagnosis, and advanced treatment options.Dr Sudhakar Kantipudi, chief operating officer, Teaching Hospitals, MAHE and Dr Anil K Bhat, dean, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, were present.
