When the FDA approves a new way to help American with rare diseases, it’s easy to assume it that it’s not for “us.” But, girl… we are Americans, too, and when it comes to severe aplastic anemia, a life-threatening blood disorder, access—not just incidence—tells the real story for women of color and our families.
Severe aplastic anemia occurs when the bone marrow stops producing enough red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. It’s rare, but it can be fatal without treatment. While African-American women are not more likely to develop aplastic anemia, we are more likely to face barriers once a diagnosis happens—especially when a stem cell transplant is needed.
That’s why the FDA’s approval of Omisirge (omidubicel-onlv) is a meaningful breakthrough.
Traditionally, the best outcomes come from stem cell transplants using a closely matched donor, often a sibling. But Black patients are significantly less likely to find compatible donors due to under-representation in donor registries. Omisirge helps close that gap by using enhanced umbilical cord blood stem cells, expanding transplant options for patients who don’t have a matched donor.
In clinical studies, patients receiving Omisirge experienced faster immune recovery, which may reduce infection risks and shorten recovery time. These are all critical factors for families already navigating healthcare inequities.
At Glow Stream TV, we believe health equity starts with information. Understanding how medical advances intersect with real-world access helps us advocate better—for ourselves and for the next generation.
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