Kerala has introduced free growth hormone therapy under its KARE (Kerala United Against Rare Diseases) scheme, a significant initiative in the field of rare disease treatment. Announced by State Health Minister Veena George on World Rare Disease Day, the program aims to provide early detection and expert care for children with congenital disorders.
As part of this initiative, a Growth Hormone (GH) treatment camp was held at SAT Hospital, affiliated with Thiruvananthapuram Government Medical College. The therapy was administered to 20 children—14 diagnosed with Turner syndrome and six with GH deficiency—under the guidance of the Centre of Excellence for Rare Diseases. A multidisciplinary team conducted comprehensive evaluations before initiating treatment.
Growth hormone, secreted by the pituitary gland, is essential for a child’s physical development and muscle strength. A deficiency can lead to stunted growth in children and issues such as muscle weakness, fatigue, and brittle bones in adults. If untreated, these conditions can cause serious complications. The expensive therapy, which typically costs several lakhs, is now accessible free of charge through the KARE scheme.
Launched in February 2024, the KARE initiative is a groundbreaking effort in rare disease management. SAT Hospital has been designated as a Centre of Excellence for Rare Diseases, where Enzyme Replacement Therapy was introduced the same year. Additionally, 100 children diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) are currently receiving specialized care under the scheme.
