KFSHRC Marks Four Decades Of Excellence In Stem Cell Transplantation At GHE 2024

King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC) marked a significant milestone by celebrating the 40th anniversary of its Stem Cell Program. This program is a leader in bone marrow and stem cell transplantation in the region. Recognised at the 2024 Global Health Exhibition, KFSHRC ranks among the top 2% globally for annual stem cell transplant volumes, having completed over 7,400 procedures, with 38% involving children.

The Stem Cell Center at KFSHRC has grown into one of the world's largest facilities for bone marrow transplants over four decades. According to the Center for International Blood & Marrow Transplant Research (CIBMTR) in Wisconsin, USA, it offers all internationally recognised types of bone marrow transplants. These include autologous transplants, matched (syngeneic), half-matched (haploidentical) donor transplants, and umbilical cord blood transplants.

These advanced procedures have successfully treated numerous complex cases, significantly improving patients' quality of life. The center's efforts have been pivotal in establishing the Eastern Mediterranean Bone Marrow Transplantation (EMBMT) Group. This group focuses on promoting research and transplantation programs throughout the Middle East.

KFSHRC's Stem Cell Center has published over 500 research papers and actively supports region-specific studies. In 2010, it became the first medical center outside North America and Europe to receive accreditation from the Joint Accreditation Committee ISCT & EBMT (JACIE). This recognition underscores its commitment to maintaining high standards in stem cell transplantation.

Stem cell transplants at KFSHRC are used to treat various diseases such as leukemia, lymphoma, bone marrow failure, severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, and multiple myeloma. The center's expertise in these areas has contributed to its esteemed reputation.

Prestigious Rankings and Recognition

KFSHRC has achieved notable rankings in recent years. It was ranked first in the Middle East and Africa and 20th globally among the world's top 250 academic medical centers for two consecutive years. Additionally, it was recognised as the most valuable healthcare brand in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East according to the 2024 Brand Finance rankings.

The hospital also earned a spot among the world's best 250 hospitals and was included in *Newsweek* magazine's World's Best Smart Hospitals list for 2025. These accolades reflect KFSHRC's dedication to excellence in healthcare services.

The achievements of KFSHRC's Stem Cell Program highlight its role as a leader in medical innovation and patient care within Saudi Arabia and beyond. Its contributions continue to advance global standards in stem cell transplantation.

With inputs from SPA