Lagos University Teaching Hospital Launches Bone Marrow Transplant Program to Combat Sickle Cell Disease

The Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) has officially launched a bone marrow transplant program aimed at curing sickle cell disease in Nigeria. This initiative, developed in collaboration with the Sickle Cell Foundation Nigeria (SCFN), addresses a pressing health challenge, as sickle cell disease poses significant risks, including life-threatening complications and reduced life expectancy for affected individuals.

In a joint statement by LUTH’s Chief Medical Director, Prof. Wasiu Adeyemo, and SCFN’s National Director, Dr. Annette Akinsete, the importance of this program was underscored. "Recognizing the gaps in care for individuals affected by the disease in Nigeria, SCFN and LUTH established a bone marrow transplant program at LUTH," they stated.

The program includes comprehensive care measures such as newborn screening, penicillin prophylaxis, and Transcranial Doppler screening for children at risk of stroke. Although chronic blood transfusion therapy and hydroxyurea have improved survival rates among children, challenges remain for adults with severe forms of the disease.

LUTH's bone marrow transplant program builds upon previous efforts, including the establishment of a post-transplant clinic in 2019, which was the first of its kind in sub-Saharan Africa. The first patients began their treatment regimen, which included exchange blood transfusions, chemotherapy, and anti-infective prophylaxis, prior to receiving stem cell infusions on September 17 and 19, 2024.

Bone marrow transplants are recognized as an effective cure for sickle cell disease but carry potential complications, such as infection and graft-versus-host disease. LUTH’s program is supported by a multidisciplinary team of health professionals, ensuring comprehensive care and follow-up.

With ongoing advancements, this program represents a significant step toward improving treatment options for sickle cell disease in Nigeria, alleviating the financial and emotional burdens that families often face when seeking care abroad.