The Joint Clinical Research Center (JCRC) has successfully treated its first patient using stem-cell therapy, marking a medical milestone in the East African region.
The groundbreaking regenerative medicine procedure, performed Wednesday afternoon, involved the infusion of stem cells into a patient suffering from chronic back pain.
Among the first to undergo this therapy was Dr. Elly Karuhanga, a prominent lawyer and former Nyabushozi County MP, who has battled persistent back pain since the 1980s. Despite multiple surgeries both locally and abroad, his condition continued to affect his mobility.
Speaking to journalists after the procedure, Karuhanga emphasized the cost barrier for patients seeking similar treatment overseas. “This therapy is available abroad but at a steep cost—about $100,000—not including travel and lodging expenses for both the patient and their caretaker,” he explained.
Bringing Regenerative Medicine to Uganda
Dr. Cissy Kityo, Executive Director of JCRC, noted that the introduction of stem-cell therapy follows over a decade of research in regenerative medicine. The center aims to use this cutting-edge treatment for a range of conditions, including:
- Bone-related disorders
- Joint diseases (e.g., osteoarthritis)
- Diabetes
- Blood disorders (e.g., sickle cell anemia, cancer)
- Autoimmune diseases
- Spinal and back injuries (including those from road crashes)
While acknowledging that the treatment remains costly, Kityo revealed that JCRC’s collaboration with Sweden’s Karolinska University is helping reduce expenses compared to what patients would pay overseas. However, she declined to disclose specific price ranges, citing variation based on individual patient needs.
Prof. Charles Ibingira, Chair of the JCRC Board, emphasized that regenerative medicine has the potential to redefine treatment paradigms. Beyond addressing age-related frailty, he noted that this therapy rejuvenates the body at a cellular level, strengthening the foundation for long-term health and wellness.
With this historic breakthrough, JCRC has positioned Uganda as a regional leader in regenerative medicine, offering new hope to patients battling chronic and degenerative conditions.
