Stem cell transplant gaining popularity, says Senior Consultant Haematologist Dr. Lim Zyi in Colombo

Friday, 28 March 2014 00:02 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Dr. Lim Zyi, Senior Consultant Haematologist at the Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital was in Colombo recently on the invitation of the Parkway Patient Assistance Centre (PPAC). Dr. Zyi works closely with his counterparts in Sri Lanka and took part in a joint session hosted by the Sir Lanka College of Haematologists. “Stem cell transplant is gaining momentum as an effective first line of treatment in blood related cancers,” says Dr. Zyi, who has

extensive experience in this cutting edge field of stem cell transplant. “In some parts of Asia, it is not possible to source donors due to lack of awareness but the good news is that once you have a donor, his or her entire family is genetically viable as hosts.” “Transplantation is still very much a specialised area but more and more stem cell transplant operations are being done in Singapore, recognised as a dedicated stem cell transplant hub, with its state-of-the-art technology and specialised know-how.” Dr. Zyi is committed to a long term exercise of sharing knowledge and expertise with Sri Lankan doctors and believes that key to overcoming the threat of cancer lies in improved information and access to cutting edge treatment options available. He stressed on the need to bring down the costs of conducting stem cell transplant operations, while also stating that Sri Lanka with its advanced medical know-how and expertise, is an ideal place for a stem cell transplant centre to be located. Speaking of cancers that affect the blood, Dr. Zyi says that the majority of cancers occur as a result of a combined set of genetic, environmental and dietary factors. When the average age of blood cancer occur at around 50, symptoms to watch out for include swelling of glands, bruising, non-specific fatigue, inflammation and risk of getting an infection which can spread. Blood cancers also affect children. Bone marrow transplant can help in genetic conditions such as sickle cell disease and Thalassaemia. “Thalassaemia is curable, if treated early,” says Dr. Zyi. “Certain blood cancers also respond well to bone marrow transplants,” he adds. Dr. Zyi is keen to share his insights with the Sri Lankan community of Haematologists and is constantly reviewing ways of adding value to the close relationship he maintains with them.