'Health': Enzyme therapy begins for newborns with 'phenylketonuria'
In a move reflecting its commitment to providing the latest medications, the Ministry of Health announced the commencement of administering a new enzyme therapy for patients with phenylketonuria (PKU). This landmark step underscores the ministry’s ongoing dedication to supplying specialized, cutting-edge treatments for rare genetic diseases, thereby contributing to improved quality of life for patients and elevating the standard of healthcare services they receive in accordance with the latest global medical standards.
Dr. Hind Al-Sharhan, a consultant in genetic and metabolic diseases at Farwaniya Hospital, stated in an interview with Kuwait Television that phenylketonuria is a rare genetic metabolic disorder caused by a deficiency or absence of the enzyme responsible for breaking down the amino acid phenylalanine. This deficiency leads to the accumulation of phenylalanine in the blood and brain, which can cause serious complications affecting the nervous system and cognitive development if not detected and treated early.
She added that Kuwait implements a national newborn screening program, which enables early detection of the disease within the first days after birth. This allows for the immediate initiation of treatment plans and helps mitigate health complications that may arise from delayed diagnosis. She noted that medical care for PKU patients relies on a comprehensive treatment system that begins with providing specialized medical formula and phenylalanine-free nutritional supplements, ensuring that children receive all necessary nutrients and amino acids for healthy growth. This is complemented by individualized dietary programs tailored to each patient’s specific health condition.
She pointed out that specialized medical and nutritional teams monitor patients regularly by measuring phenylalanine levels in the blood and assessing nutritional needs based on age, weight, and laboratory test results. This ensures that levels remain within safe limits and reduces the risk of complications.
She clarified that the introduction of the new enzyme therapy represents a significant breakthrough in treating the disease. It aims to improve the body’s ability to process phenylalanine, allowing patients to gradually expand their dietary options and alleviate the strict restrictions imposed by the disease over many years. This development has a positive impact on patients’ physical, psychological, and social well-being.
She hinted that the availability of this treatment is part of a comprehensive strategy to develop services for treating genetic and rare diseases. This strategy involves introducing the latest globally approved therapeutic technologies, providing innovative medications, and enhancing early detection and continuous follow-up programs. These efforts ensure the delivery of comprehensive and sustainable healthcare to patients.
The Ministry of Health emphasized its continued investment in preventive and therapeutic programs and the development of specialized services. These initiatives aim to enhance the quality of healthcare and solidify Kuwait’s position as a provider of advanced services for patients with genetic and rare diseases, driven by its commitment to offering the highest standards of treatment and improving the quality of life for all patients.
