Mangaluru: KMC Hospital Attavar organised a Free HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigen) Typing Camp on May 8, 2026, in observance of World Thalassemia Day, in association with the Department of Paediatric Haematology-Oncology at Kasturba Hospital, Manipal.
The initiative aimed to support children suffering from thalassemia and other blood disorders by helping identify suitable bone marrow donors.
Good participation from families
The camp witnessed encouraging participation from families across different parts of the region.
Patients, along with their siblings and parents, underwent HLA typing, a specialised test used to identify compatibility for bone marrow transplantation.
HLA matching is a crucial step in providing curative treatment options for children affected by thalassemia and related blood disorders.
Supporting families through free testing
Hospital authorities stated that HLA typing is a highly specialised and expensive test.
By organising the camp free of cost with support from the One Good Step Foundation, the hospital aimed to ease the financial burden on families and offer hope for advanced treatment opportunities.
Pathway towards bone marrow transplantation
Patients found to have suitable donor matches will undergo further evaluation for bone marrow transplantation and curative treatment at Kasturba Hospital, Manipal.
The hospital is recognised as one of the leading centres for paediatric bone marrow transplantation services in the region.
Expert opinions on the initiative
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Vasudeva Bhat K., Head of the Department of Paediatric Haematology Oncology at Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, highlighted that the cost of HLA typing often becomes a major challenge for many families.
He said the camp was organised to make the important diagnostic test accessible to children who genuinely require it, while assuring continued support and guidance throughout the treatment process.
Commitment to compassionate healthcare
Dr. Sudhakar Kantipudi, Chief Operating Officer – Teaching Hospitals, MAHE, stated that patient care and community service always go hand in hand at MAHE teaching hospitals.
He appreciated the collaborative efforts of the medical teams and their dedication towards supporting children and families facing difficult medical situations.
Hope for children and families
Dr. Chakrapani, Medical Superintendent of KMC Hospital Attavar, expressed happiness over hosting the initiative and noted that every matching donor offers new hope for a child awaiting treatment.
He added that the hospital would continue supporting community-focused healthcare initiatives in the future.
Strengthening healthcare accessibility
The camp reflected the continued commitment of MAHE’s teaching hospitals towards providing accessible, compassionate, and advanced healthcare services for children affected by thalassemia and related disorders.
Conclusion
The Free HLA Typing Camp served as a meaningful healthcare initiative, bringing together medical expertise, community support, and hope for families seeking life-changing treatment options for children with blood disorders.
