UAE’s Medcare Treats First International SMA Patient With Revolutionary Intrathecal Gene Therapy
The newly licensed intrathecal gene therapy expands life-changing treatment options for children and adults affected by SMA
World's first international patient, who received intrathecal gene therapy at Medcare Royal Hospital in Dubai, UAE, along with parents, and the hospital team. (Photo: AETOSWire)
For Hulus, whose daily routine earlier depended on intensive physiotherapy and hydrotherapy, the procedure from Medcare offered a promising alternative to lifelong injections. His father, Mustafa, shared that despite years of rehabilitation, the therapy has renewed hope for greater independence and quality of life for his son.
“This is a defining moment for SMA care in the region,” said Dr. Shanila Laiju, Group CEO of Medcare Hospitals & Medical Centres. “Families whose children were previously ineligible for gene therapy now have access to a revolutionary treatment that can significantly improve outcomes. This reflects Medcare’s long-standing commitment to children with rare diseases, supported by specialised expertise and advanced infrastructure.”
Since 2020, Medcare has treated more than 180 children with SMA, welcoming families from Iran, Turkey, Nepal, Romania, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Ukraine, Belarus, Lebanon, India, and Ethiopia, reinforcing Dubai’s role as a strategic global hub for medical tourism and paediatric genetic care.
“Older and heavier patients can now benefit from transformative therapy,” said Dr. Vivek Mundada, Consultant Paediatric Neurologist. “This shifts SMA care beyond infant survival toward preserving mobility, independence, and respiratory function in older patients.”
Medcare delivers SMA care through a multidisciplinary model encompassing neurology, pulmonology, orthopaedics, rehabilitation, genetic counselling, and long-term follow-up for international patients.
Aligned with the UAE’s medical tourism vision, Medcare, part of Aster DM Healthcare, continues to invest in advanced technologies, specialised units, and clinical talent to provide timely, high-quality care for rare and complex conditions, including Spinal Muscular Atrophy.
Source: AETOSWire
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This news is a press release provided by Medcare.
