Qatar Marks Milestone with first Pediatric Stem Cell Transplant at Sidra Medicine

Sidra Medicine, Doha

Qatar Marks Milestone with First Pediatric Stem Cell Transplant at Sidra Medicine  

Doha: In a groundbreaking achievement of Qatar’s healthcare sector, Sidra Medicine has successfully performed the country’s first pediatric allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). The procedure, carried out on a nine-year-old boy diagnosed with relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemia, represents a significant step forward in the nation’s ability to deliver advanced, life-saving treatments for children with complex conditions. 

The transplant was made possible through stem cells donated by the patient’s brother and follows the opening of Sidra Medicine’s dedicated HSCT ward in June 2025. This milestone highlights Qatar’s growing capacity to provide specialized therapies within its borders, ensuring families no longer need to seek such critical care abroad.

Dr. Ahmed Al Hammadi, Chair of Pediatric Medicine at Sidra Medicine, said: “Completing our first pediatric allogeneic stem cell transplant is a significant milestone for Sidra Medicine and for pediatric care in Qatar. It reflects our commitment to delivering world-class specialty care, strengthening national capabilities in advanced cellular therapies, and ensuring that children can access highly specialized, life-saving treatment close to home.”

Building on the milestone Dr. Chiara Cugno, A/Chief Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and HSCT and Director of the Advanced Cell Therapy Core at Sidra Medicine, said: “We are proud to be able to provide life-saving HSCT to children in need, reflecting the continued growth of Sidra Medicine’s pediatric HSCT program and the expertise of our hematology and oncology teams. Two additional pediatric patients are currently receiving care under the same HSCT program, and our services are open to both local and international patients. This program addresses a critical national need, with more than 50 children in Qatar currently awaiting transplantation.”

This achievement highlights not only the significance of this first successful transplant but also the promise of Sidra Medicine’s expanding HSCT program, which is set to transform pediatric care in Qatar and provide hope for families both locally and abroad.

The young patient’s journey began in 2019 with standard chemotherapy, but after relapses in 2022 and 2024, the medical team determined that an allogeneic stem cell transplant offered the best chance for long-term recovery. For children facing such relapses, treatment options are extremely limited without HSCT, underscoring the importance of timely access to this therapy.

This achievement is not only a medical milestone but also a reflection of Qatar’s steady progress from humble beginnings to advanced healthcare excellence. By investing in specialized programs like HSCT, the country is quietly but firmly positioning itself as a regional leader in pediatric care, offering hope to families and strengthening its reputation for compassionate innovation.