The Maldives Zakat House has allocated MVR 2.5 million from the national Zakat Fund to support bone marrow transplants for children living with thalassemia, reinforcing ongoing efforts to provide life-saving treatment for patients affected by the hereditary blood disorder.
According to Zakat House, the funds were transferred to the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) on Sunday to facilitate the treatment programme.
Bone marrow transplants for eligible Maldivian children are financed through the Zakat Fund under a cooperation agreement signed between the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and the Ministry of Health on February 21, 2024. However, financial assistance for such procedures has been provided through the fund for more than a decade, with support dating back to 2014.
Health authorities regard bone marrow transplantation as the only permanent cure currently available for thalassemia, a genetic blood disorder that affects the body’s ability to produce healthy red blood cells.
Patients diagnosed with thalassemia often require lifelong blood transfusions, regular medical monitoring and ongoing treatment to manage the condition. A successful bone marrow transplant can eliminate the need for continuous transfusions and significantly reduce the risk of long-term complications associated with the disease.
The procedure involves replacing damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells obtained from a compatible donor, enabling the patient’s body to produce normal blood cells.
Medical experts say the treatment can dramatically improve quality of life, allowing many patients to lead healthier and more independent lives.
The Maldives has one of the highest rates of thalassemia in the region relative to its population, making treatment, prevention and patient support a major public health priority.
Successive governments have invested heavily in thalassemia care, including screening programmes, blood transfusion services, specialized treatment and overseas medical assistance for advanced procedures such as bone marrow transplantation.
The latest allocation reflects the continued role of the Zakat Fund in supporting critical healthcare needs, particularly for children and families facing significant medical expenses.
Authorities have repeatedly emphasized the importance of ensuring access to potentially curative treatments for thalassemia patients while strengthening support services for those living with the condition.
With the additional MVR 2.5 million now transferred, eligible patients requiring bone marrow transplants abroad are expected to continue receiving financial assistance through the programme.
