Abu Dhabi has become the first in the world to deliver Itvisma, a one-time gene therapy specifically designed to target the underlying genetic cause of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) in patients aged two years and above.
Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC) has successfully administered this groundbreaking gene therapy, developed by Novartis, under the supervision of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), the regulator of the healthcare sector in the emirate.
The therapy had been previously approved by the UAE on November 25, positioning it among the first countries globally, after the USA, to endorse the pioneering treatment.
Designed for simplicity long-term impact, Itvisma (onasemnogene abeparvovec) replaces the missing SMN1 gene to improve motor function, reducing the need for continuous treatments required by other therapies.
Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Under-Secretary of DoH, stated that “this milestone reflects Abu Dhabi’s commitment to delivering world class care and strengthening its position as a global leader in healthcare driven by genomics and precision medicine."
UAE President, Zelenskyy discuss Ukraine crisis and bilateral ties
UAE condemns Iranian attack on Kuwait
UAE offers condolences after deadly South Africa bus crash
UAE launches annual award to honour changemakers
UAE becomes second country to approve Lipfendra to treat high cholesterol
Sharjah Police recovers AED 500,000 in stolen goods in under 3 hours
UAE welcomes Gaza agreement for Hamas disarmament
Sheikh Abdullah meets UK Foreign Secretary in London
