The Karnataka government has launched the ‘Kusuma Sanjeevini’ programme to provide free treatment to haemophilia patients across the state.
Health and Family Welfare Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said the initiative has given him a deep sense of fulfilment. He was speaking at the launch event held at the U.R. Rao Auditorium in Bengaluru, inaugurated by Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar.
Rao said haemophilia is a rare blood-clotting disorder predominantly affecting males, while women are usually carriers who can pass it on genetically. He said around 2,600 patients in Karnataka struggle to access timely treatment, with many children unable to study or participate in normal activities.
There is no permanent cure for the disease, and patients previously required intravenous injections two to three times a week for life. However, a new monoclonal antibody treatment administered under the skin is now available. The injection, Emicizumab, supplied by Roche Pharma India, needs to be given once a month and has been tested on 200 patients.
Rao described it as a major scientific advancement that can help prevent deformities and disabilities.
The state has sanctioned Rs 45.55 crore for the programme, including Rs 17 crore for the new medicine. The annual treatment cost per patient is about Rs 5 lakh. Free 108 ambulance services will also be provided to support patients.
Shivakumar said no child or parent wishes for such a disease and assured families that the government would bear the financial burden. He said parents would no longer need to worry about spending Rs 50,000 a month on injections and that the government stands committed to supporting affected families.