The healthcare ecosystem around aplastic anemia diagnosis and treatment in India is witnessing renewed attention as Bharat Serum and Vaccines Limited (BSV), a Mankind Group company, urged stronger collaboration among healthcare stakeholders during Aplastic Anemia Awareness Week (March 1–7). Observed under the theme “Voices of Strength and Hope,” the initiative highlights the need for improved early screening, diagnosis and coordinated referral systems to address the disease burden. India is estimated to record around 20,000 cases of aplastic anemia annually, with incidence in Asia reported to be two to three times higher than in Western countries. The rare blood disorder occurs when bone marrow fails to produce sufficient red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets, leading to pancytopenia. Studies from tertiary healthcare centres indicate that 20–40% of patients presenting with pancytopenia are diagnosed with aplastic anemia.
Dr. Santosh Kumar, Consultant Pediatric Hemato-oncologist and BMT physician at Medanta Hospital, Patna, said delayed diagnosis remains a key concern. “Persistent fatigue, frequent infections, unexplained bruising or abnormal bleeding should not be ignored. Proper evaluation including blood profile, clinical assessment and bone marrow biopsy is essential for confirmation,” he said.
BSV’s COO for India Business, Sivani Sarma Deka, said the company is supporting an aplastic anemia registry spanning 15 centres across India, aimed at generating real-world data on diagnosis, treatment patterns and outcomes. Experts stress that expanding hematology diagnostics beyond metro cities, strengthening referral pathways and increasing public awareness will be critical for improving long-term patient outcomes.
