Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) successfully conducted its first bone marrow transplant on a patient, costing Tk 322,000, which is significantly lower than the Tk 2 million charged in other countries, according to officials on Monday.
The medical procedure took place at the university's first bone marrow transplantation and stem cell therapy center, which is a significant advancement in healthcare services.
Speaking at a media briefing, BSMMU Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Md Sharfuddin Ahmed stated that the cost of this transplant in private hospitals in the country ranges from Tk 0.6 million to Tk 1.2 million.
He also mentioned that the cost of this type of bone marrow transplantation abroad is Tk 2.0 million to Tk 3.0 million, depending on the hospital. The briefing was held at the university's stem cell therapy center.
During the event, physicians emphasised the importance of permanent and consistent bone marrow transplantation and expressed their goal of making the therapy center world-class.
Dr. Md. Salahuddin Shah, the chairman of BSMMU Department of Haematology, presented the technical aspects of bone marrow transplantation.
The bone marrow transplantation and stem cell therapy center was established on January 1 in F-Block of BSMMU to provide treatment for cancer patients.
Enamul Haque, a 63-year-old resident of Narayanganj, came to the hospital for treatment four months ago with various physical complications.
After medical examinations, the hematology department confirmed that he was suffering from complex blood cancer. He was then treated in the hematology department, and doctors decided that he needed a bone marrow transplant.
Stem cells were collected on January 17,from Enamul's body, and the bone marrow transplantation was performed by Prof Dr. Salahuddin Shah on January 18.
After 18 days, no complications were observed in the patient's body, which the doctors considered to be a normal and positive outcome, indicating the successful application of the bone marrow.
The BSMMU vice-chancellor stated that patients in the country no longer need to seek treatment abroad. With the necessary support from the government, the center has the capacity to perform 3 to 5 bone marrow transplants per month. Currently, one bone marrow transplant per month is possible with the existing facilities.
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