Free HLA typing camp held in Mangaluru on World Thalassaemia Day

Mangaluru: To mark World Thalassaemia Day, KMC Hospital Attavar, Mangaluru, organised a free HLA (human leukocyte antigen) typing camp in association with department of paediatric haematology-oncology, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, Friday.The camp saw strong participation, with families from across the region attending. Patients, along with their siblings and parents, underwent HLA typing — a crucial step in identifying suitable bone marrow donors for children suffering from thalassaemia and other blood disorders.HLA typing is a highly specialised and expensive test. By conducting the camp at no cost, with the support of One Good Step Foundation, the hospital aimed to ease the financial burden on families seeking curative treatment options. Patients found to have suitable donor matches will be further evaluated for bone marrow transplantation and curative treatment at Kasturba Hospital, Manipal.Dr Vasudeva Bhat K, head of the department, said, "For many families, the cost of HLA typing itself becomes a major challenge. Through this camp, we wanted to make this important test easily accessible to children who genuinely need it. Our team is committed to supporting these patients and guiding families through every step of the treatment journey."Dr Sudhakar Kantipudi, chief operating officer, teaching hospitals, MAHE, said, "Camps like this are very meaningful because they directly help families who are going through difficult situations. It is encouraging to see our teams from both regions coming together with dedication and compassion to support these children and their parents."Dr Chakrapani, medical superintendent, KMC Hospital Attavar, said, "Every matching donor brings new hope for a child and family waiting for treatment. The hospital will continue to support such community-focused healthcare initiatives in the future as well."