Sickle Cell Disease in India

Get expert Sickle Cell Disease treatment in India. Affordable care for patients from Nigeria, Kenya, and Bangladesh. Contact GetWellGo for support.

Sickle Cell Disease in India

  • Category

    General

  • Published By

    GetWellGo Team

  • Updated on

    11-Mar-2024

Sickle Cell Disease is a genetic disorder that affects millions around the globe, bringing challenges that touch the lives of patients and their families deeply. For those living in countries like Bangladesh, Nigeria, and Kenya, where the disease prevalence is notably high, the quest for effective treatment can lead them far from home to India—a country at the forefront of advanced medical care for SCD.

What Is Sickle Cell Anemia?

Sickle Cell anemia is a severe form of SCD, where the red blood cells, responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body, are abnormally shaped like a crescent or sickle. SCD causes the cells to clog up tiny blood vessels, which makes the blood and Oxygen circulation harder.

Types of Sickle Cell Anaemia

Sickle cell disease comes in different types, each affecting the body in unique ways. Let's simplify these types:

  • Hemoglobin SS Disease: This is the type you hear about most often. It's pretty tough on the body, causing more severe symptoms than the other types.
  • Hemoglobin SC Disease: People with this type usually have milder symptoms, but how they feel can change a lot from person to person.
  • Hemoglobin SB+ (Beta) Thalassemia: This type messes with how the body makes a part of the red blood cells, leading to smaller cells that can't carry oxygen as well.
  • Hemoglobin SB 0 (Beta-zero) Thalassemia: It's a lot like the SS type but can be even tougher on the body for some people.
  • Sickle Cell Trait: If you have this, it means you carry one gene for sickle cell but usually don't have any symptoms. It's like having a silent version of the disease.

Signs and Symptoms of Sickle cell disease in India

Dealing with sickle cell disease means facing a few tough symptoms. Let's break them down into simpler terms:

  • Anemia: People with sickle cell disease often feel very tired because their blood doesn't have enough healthy red cells to carry oxygen all around the body.
  • Pain Crises: Sometimes, the sickle-shaped cells can get stuck and block blood flow, which can hurt a lot. This kind of pain might need a doctor's help to feel better.
  • Swelling in Hands and Feet: Because the blood flow can get blocked, hands and feet might swell up and feel uncomfortable.
  • Increased Infection Risk: People with SCD might find it tougher to ward off germs, leading to them getting sick more easily.
  • Delayed Growth and Puberty: Kids with sickle cell disease might grow up more slowly and hit puberty later than other kids their age.
  • Vision Problems: When blood vessels are blocked, it can also impact people's eyesight, making it hard for them to see clearly.

Diagnosis and Treatments of Sickle cell disease in India

Diagnosis involves blood tests and genetic testing. Treatments include:

  • Pain Management: Keeping the pain under control is super important. It makes everyday life better and helps people with sickle cell disease do more of what they love.
  • Blood Transfusions: This means getting extra healthy red blood cells from donors. It helps carry more oxygen around the body and can make a big difference in feeling better.
  • Antibiotics: Antibiotics are like superheroes for the immune system, helping to keep away infections that people with sickle cell are more likely to catch.
  • Hydroxyurea: This medicine can make painful episodes happen less often and reduce the need for blood transfusions.
  • Bone Marrow Transplant: This is a big step that could cure sickle cell disease. Doctors replace the sick cells with healthy ones from a donor, giving the body a chance to make healthy blood cells again.

Sickle Cell Disease Treatment in India

India shines as a prime destination for sickle cell disease treatment, combining expert care with value. With GetWellGo, access top specialists like Drs. Gaurav Kharya, Rahul Naithani, Pravas Chandra Mishra, and Nivedita Dhingra at leading hospitals such as BLK Super Specialty, Medanta, Fortis Memorial, Max Saket, and Artemis. With sickle cell treatment cost ranging from USD $24,000 to USD $28,000 for bone marrow transplants, India presents affordable, high-quality healthcare solutions.

Medical Visa Process

Step 1: Eligibility for Medical Visa

  • A medical visa is also known as M visa, which is issued to the foreign patients visiting India for sharing medical treatment.
  • It is possible to invite only two persons – relatives or other persons connected with the applicant in any other way – to accompany the applicant on the Medical Attendant Visa (MX visa).
  • The patient should be in search of treatment in any accredited hospital in India.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

You will need:

  • Medical documents: A letter from the hospital of India stating that the medical condition of the patient has been treated and they have undergone through liver transplant.
  • Client Medical History: Information on the liver disease: diagnosis report, treatment and doctor advice.
  • Visa Application Form: Intended visa application form duly completed, which could only be downloaded from the website of Indian embassy in your country.
  • Passport: Valid for at least six months with at least two blank pages.
  • Necessary number of photos as per the provision of the Indian Visa with the size of passport photographs.
  • Evidences of the ability to meet the medical costs: Banks statements or a sponsorship letter.
  • Proof of Residence: National ID, utility bills, or similar documents.

Step 3: Apply for the Medical Visa

  • This can be done by going directly to the official website of the Indian embassy or the Indian consulate in the country of your residence.
  • The e-Medical Visa or Regular Medical Visa application form has to be completed.
  • In case if the visa fee is applicable then the candidate will have to pay this fees online.
  • Send the application with necessary documents to the nearest Indian consulate or the visa centre where such facilities are offered.

Step 4: Wait for Processing & Approval

  • Delivery time is 3-7 working days and may vary depending on the country.
  • If granted, the visa gets stamped on the passport to show that the holder is entitled to enter the country of destination.

Step 5: Travel to India & Report to the Hospital

  • When going for medical purposes, clients should ensure to carry all their medical documents and a copy of their visa.
  • Register with the local Foreigner Regional Registration Office (FRRO) if necessary within 14 days from the arrival in India.
  • Continue with medical assessment of the hospital and its transplants.

How GetWellGo Can Assist

At GetWellGo, our mission is to support you at every step of your sickle cell treatment in India. We offer:

  • Hospital and Doctor Recommendations: Ensuring you find the right specialist.
  • Assessment from Specialist Doctors: To understand your condition fully.
  • Detailed Treatment Plans and Costs: With no hidden charges.
  • Travel & Medical Visa Support: Making your treatment process stress-free.
  • Priority & Hassle-Free Medical Care: So you can focus on your recovery.

Conclusion

Sickle Cell Disease represents a complex challenge, but with advancements in treatment and the support available in India, there is hope. GetWellGo is committed to guiding you through the entire process of sickle cell treatment in India, providing access to some of the best medical care available globally. If you or a loved one are facing the challenges of Sickle Cell Disease, remember, GetWellGo is here to help you begin on a journey towards healing and improved quality of life.

Case Study of our Patients Treated for Sickle Cell Anemia in India

Sickle Cell Anemia Treatment for a Kenyan Patient at BLK Hospital

  • Patient Name: James
  • Age: 20 years old
  • Gender: Male
  • Country of Origin: Kenya
  • Doctor Name: Dr. Dharma Chaudhary
  • Hospital Name: BLK Hospital, New Delhi
  • Treatment: Haploidentical Bone Marrow Transplant

This is a real-life experience revolving around a young man, James, 20 years old, a student from Nairobi, Kenya, who had complications of Sickle cell disease (SCD severe). His disease had to a great extent affected his way of living and he was in need of a permanent solution. After searching on the internet, he finalised the company called GetWellGo through which he got access to treatment in India.

During his stay in India, the international patient services team of GetWellGo also made all necessary preparations to facilitate the patient’s travel from the airport to his hotel, appointments with the doctors, and other needs. He was treated under the guidance of Dr. Dharma Chaudhary a hematologist at BLK Hospital where he underwent the haploidentical bone marrow transplant.

After the surgery, a close observation on James was made in order to monitor his post operational health status to allow for early detection of any rare complications. Due to adequate care after the operation, his bodily condition started improving and he began to regain his strength.

Expressing his gratitude, James shared:

“I had a really wonderful experience at BLK Hospital, the treatment that I got there was so special. Every person, starting from the doctors and ending with the coordinators, made me feel as comfortable as possible during the whole process that I went through. It has been one of the honours to have been cared for and supported throughout my treatment period”.
We would like to seize this chance and congratulate James on his recovery and hope that further life will be as healthy and happy as possible.

Sickle Cell Anemia Treatment for a Kenyan Patient at Fortis Memorial Research Institute

  • Patient Name: Mark
  • Age: 25 years old
  • Gender: Male
  • Country of Origin: Kenya
  • Doctor Name: Dr. Vikas Dua
  • Hospital Name: Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon
  • Treatment: Bone Marrow Transplant

This is a case of a young Kenyan boy by the name Mark who was diagnosed of sickle cell anemia and had many complications with his health. He had a condition that was impairing his quality of life and consequently, his family had to search for a solution. Based on such recommendations, they chose the GetWellGo platform for getting recommendations as well as they found help in India.

Since the international patient services department of GetWellGo were organized to provide all necessary and required appointments, transfers, accommodation and much more after they arrived in India. Thus, with the help of Dr. Vikas Dua, a pediatric hematologist at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Mark got a successful bone-marrow transplant because his brother was a perfect match for HLA.

After that, Mark’s medical situation was closely supervised to ensure that he did not develop any complications during his recovery from the operation. In the following months the conditions of Health increased, and he did not have such severe relapses that would prevent him from getting back to his normal life again.

In their response, the family of Mark appreciated and said that they felt good.

This is where we got to know that the treatment at Fortis Memorial Research Institute proved to be a boon for us. All contributors, right from the doctors to the coordinators, made sure that we were relaxed from the onset to the end. We really appreciate GetWellGo and rest of the medical staff that took really good care.”

We would like to congratulate Mark on his recovery and offer him warm regards and further health and happiness.


Sickle Cell Anemia Treatment for a Nigerian Patient at Fortis Hospital, Gurgaon

  • Patient Name: John
  • Age: 4 years old
  • Gender: Male
  • Country of Origin: Nigeria
  • Doctor Name: Dr. Vikas Dua
  • Hospital Name: Fortis Hospital, Gurgaon
  • Treatment: Haploidentical Bone Marrow Transplant

John, a four-yr-old boy from Lagos, Nigeria, who was diagnosed with sickle cell disease. His situation caused a couple of hospitalizations and strokes that significantly impacted his speech and hand actions. Seeking an everlasting remedy, his mother and father contacted GetWellGo India for help in finding the quality scientific treatment.

Upon their arrival in India, the global patient offerings crew at GetWellGo ensured a seamless enjoy through arranging airport transfers, accommodation, health practitioner’s appointments, and different crucial assist. At Fortis Hospital, Gurgaon, below the professional care of Dr. Vikas Dua, John underwent a haploidentical bone marrow transplant with his father as the donor, as a completely matched sibling donor was not available.
After the transplant, John was closely monitored for post-operative healing and capability headaches. Over time, his health stepped forward extensively—his speech and hand moves have been restored, and he began regaining his strength.

His dad and mom shared their heartfelt appreciation:

"The remedy at Fortis Hospital changed into a life-changing revel for our son. From the medical doctors to the coordinators, everyone ensured our consolation all through the process. We are deeply grateful to GetWellGo and the medical team for their non-stop support and care."

We take this opportunity to have John’s success recuperation and desire him a future filled with precise health and happiness.

FAQ

1. What is sickle cell anemia?

  • Sickle cell anemia is a hereditary disease that affects the physical form of the red blood cells and thus hinders blood flow, causes pain, and complications like anemia, infections, and organ damage.

2. Is bone marrow transplant (BMT) available in India for sickle cell anemia?

  • Yes, several hospitals in India offer bone marrow transplants, especially AIIMS, CMC Vellore, and Apollo Hospitals. As for me, I think that siblings are more compatible because they increase the success rate in the transplant.

3. What is the success rate of sickle cell anemia treatment in India?

  • Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: Depending on the patient’s condition, it has an 80–90% success rate for matched related donor transplants.
  • Medications and sometimes blood transfusions are also helpful in controlling these symptoms but they do not have a cure for this disease.
  • Gene therapy (experimental): Showing promising results in trials

4. How long is the hospital stay for treatment?

  • Routine checkups: Outpatient basis
  • Blood transfusions: Few hours
  • Bone marrow transplant: 4–6 weeks in hospital, plus follow-ups

5. How to book an appointment for sickle cell anemia treatment in India?

To book an appointment for sickle cell anemia treatment in India:

  • Contact no: +91-9289678787
  • Email: care@getwellgo.com
  • Webpage link: https://getwellgo.com/

Recent Blogs