For the first time in the history of Pakistan, the Government of Punjab announced on Tuesday free treatment for a rare disease patient, aged 1.8 years. Afflicted with Gaucher - a type of rare disease, Arsalan was diagnosed last year with the support of a global healthcare company Genzyme that specialises in diagnosis and treatment of rare diseases across the world.
Due to high treatment cost, Arsalan did not receive any treatment following his diagnosis. Despite knowing that they would not be able to ensure survival of their child due to their limited financial means, Arsalan's parents did not lose hope and proactively sought support from the Government of Punjab through repeated requests and follow-ups for aid. After almost a year, the persistent pursuit of Arsalan's parents resulted in the Government of Punjab pledging support and released funds in May.
Arsalan received the first infusion recently in the Gastroenterology ward of Children's Hospital, Lahore amidst the presence of media personnel, government officials and hospital staff. He received the first infusion from the same doctor that had helped in the diagnosis of his disease last year ie Professor Huma Cheema (Professor of Gastroenterology & Hepatology at Children's Hospital, Lahore).
The initiative by the government does not only provide a ray of hope for the numerous families with a child having rare disease, but also paints a positive image of Pakistan as a country where healthcare issues of this nature are taken up seriously in the power corridors.
Gaucher disease is an inherited condition affecting fewer than 10,000 people world-wide. A0ccumulation of Gaucher cells may cause spleen and liver enlargement, anemia, excessive bleeding and bruising, bone disease and a number of other signs and symptoms.-PR
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