- Ahmedabad centre pioneers next-generation immunotherapy for relapsed blood cancer
- Breakthrough brings world-class precision treatment within reach of Indian patients
- “A medical triumph and a promise of accessible innovation,” says Chairman Dr. Keyur Parikh
NE HEALTH BUREAU
AHMEDABAD, NOV 6
In a historic stride for Indian oncology, Marengo CIMS Hospital has successfully administered its first CAR-T (Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell) therapy, marking a transformational leap in advanced cancer treatment. The milestone procedure was performed on a patient battling relapsed B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), reaffirming the hospital’s leadership in cutting-edge, compassionate, and affordable cancer care.
CAR-T cell therapy — among the most sophisticated forms of immunotherapy globally — works by genetically re-engineering a patient’s own T-cells to recognise and destroy cancer cells. Once available only at prohibitive cost overseas, this breakthrough treatment has now been made accessible and affordable in Gujarat through Marengo CIMS’s clinical innovation and integrated care model.
The procedure was led by Dr. Kaumil Patel, Consultant Hematologist, Hemato-Oncologist and BMT Physician, supported by Dr. Bhavesh Parekh, Head of Medical Oncology, and a multidisciplinary team of specialists.
“Performing the first CAR-T infusion at Marengo CIMS Hospital is not just a medical achievement; it is a step forward in making world-class cancer therapy accessible to patients who need it the most,” said Dr. Kaumil Patel.
“Our team’s goal is to combine expertise, innovation, and compassion to give patients the best possible chance for recovery.”
The patient, who had relapsed after multiple conventional treatments, has shown encouraging response and continues under careful observation.
Dr. R. Shankaran, Unit Medical Director, described the therapy as a paradigm shift in hematologic oncology: “CAR-T therapy is a game-changer. It offers a personalised, highly effective treatment option that was previously out of reach for most patients due to cost and availability.”
Echoing the sentiment, Dr. Keyur Parikh, Interventional Cardiologist and Chairman of Marengo CIMS Hospital, emphasised the hospital’s mission to bridge innovation with inclusivity:
“At Marengo CIMS, true healthcare excellence lies in bridging the gap between innovation and accessibility. The successful implementation of CAR-T therapy is not just a medical triumph but a promise — that life-saving treatments can and should be available to every patient, right here in India. This milestone reinforces our vision of placing India at the forefront of advanced and affordable healthcare.”
Dr. Raajiv Singhal, Founding Member, Managing Director & Group CEO, Marengo Asia Hospitals, added: “At Marengo Asia Hospitals, our commitment is clear — to deliver clinical excellence backed by advanced technology, expert teams, and a strong patient-first philosophy. The successful administration of CAR-T therapy reflects our ability to bring global-standard treatments within reach of Indian patients. We are not just treating disease; we are creating access through world-class infrastructure, specialised talent, and outcome-driven care. As we expand our capabilities, our goal remains to set new benchmarks, strengthen trust, and ensure precision-led, compassionate, and reliable care.”
With this milestone, Marengo CIMS Hospital joins an elite group of Indian centres offering CAR-T cell therapy, solidifying its position at the forefront of oncology innovation. The hospital plans to expand its program to include other blood cancers, further widening access to this life-changing treatment.
The achievement not only underscores Marengo CIMS’s dedication to medical excellence and multidisciplinary collaboration but also eliminates the need for patients to travel abroad, dramatically easing both financial and emotional burdens on families — a defining moment in India’s march toward equitable, world-class cancer care.
