The Department of Clinical Haematology at Christian Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, is committed to delivering exceptional care through a strong foundation of quality, clinical expertise, and research. We provide comprehensive services for both children and adults with blood disorders and hematologic cancers.
In keeping with the tradition of excellence at CMC Ludhiana, we were the first institution in Northern India to establish a dedicated Haematology and Stem Cell Transplantation Unit. Our department performed:
Our Achievements
Key Features
Our Expertise
Our Commitment
Guided by faith in God and powered by a passionate and skilled multidisciplinary team, we are dedicated to advancing patient care, education, and research. We strive to offer state-of-the-art treatment and hope to every individual and family we serve—across Punjab, Northern India, and beyond.
Vision Statement
To meet the hematology, oncological, and stem cell transplant needs of patients through ethical high quality patient care by constant innovation towards premium personalized patient care and specialized training of the health professionals.
Mission Statement
To create an outstanding Department of Clinical Haematology, Medical Oncology & Bone Marrow (Stem Cell) Transplant, which is worthy of the healing ministry of Christ. This we will do through service, education, and training, to produce professionally excellent, ethically sound individuals who will go out as servant leaders of health teams and healing communities.
Purpose statement
Associate Director Professor & Head
MD, DM, MBA (HHSM)
Professor, Dept. of Paediatrics, Consultant
MBBS, MD
Assistant Professor
MBBS, MD, DM
Assistant Professor
MBBS, MD, DM
Adjunct Professor
MD , DM FRCP, FRCPC DRCPSC
Visiting Consultant – Infectious Diseases
MD , DM FRCP, FRCPC DRCPSC
Nursing Supervisor
BMT and Haemat-Onco Services
Nursing Supervisor
BMT and Haemat-Onco Services
Quality Manager BMT and Haemat-Onco Services
Lead Physician Assistant BMT and Haemat-Onco Services
| Designation | Professor | Assistant Professor | Operation Manager | DM Residents | Nursing Supervisor | Physician Assistants | Staff Nurses | Daycare Staff | Medical Assistants | PICC Line Nurse | Clin. Pharmacologist & Res. Coordinator | Assistant Staff Nurse | Ward Clerk | Officer Clerk | Lab Technicians | Ward/Daycare/BMT Helpers | Office Helper | Project Staff | Visiting Consultant | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No. of Personnel | 2 | 2 | 1 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 23 | 2 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 6 | 7 | 1 | 1 | 5 | 66 |
We treat both children and adults with blood and cancer disorders.
In keeping with the tradition of excellence at the Christian medical college and hospital, Ludhiana we are the first institution in northern India to establish a dedicated unit for haematology and stem cell transplantation. Following the first successful allogeneic stem cell transplant in the state of Punjab, in a patient with Philadelphia positive ALL; the team was also the first to perform a successful matched unrelated donor transplant and also establish a stem cell transplant program in northern India for Thalassemia and Immunodeficiencies like Wiskott Aldrich Syndrome.
The department has completed more than 300 successful stem cell transplants and has an active ongoing matched unrelated donor (MUD) transplantation and haploidentical stem cell transplantation programme. It is an added seal of recognition that the institute is a member of National Marrow Donor Programme, USA (NMDP) in good standing since 2015.
The department excels and specializes in the management of patients (both children and adults)with benign haematological disorders of platelets, red and white blood cells like anaemia, ITP, Aplastic anaemia, Haemolytic anaemia, Haemophilia, thrombosis etc.and also Haemato-oncology leukemia(blood cancer), lymphoma and multiple myeloma).
We firmly believe that with the God Almighty at the helm of affairs and a spirited team, we will be able to fulfill the vision of providing excellent care for the people of India.
Detailed list of services and treatments available:
Specialty clinics or programs:
Our Expertise
Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, which is the tissue inside the bones where blood cells are produced. It starts when abnormal white blood cells, which are part of the body’s immune system, begin to grow uncontrollably. These abnormal cells can crowd out normal blood cells, leading to a range of health problems.
There are several types of leukemia, classified based on how quickly the disease progresses (acute or chronic) and which type of blood cell is affected (lymphoid or myeloid):
1. Acute Leukemia: This progresses quickly and requires immediate treatment. It is characterized by the rapid growth of immature blood cells.
2. Chronic Leukemia: This develops more slowly and may not show symptoms for a long time.
Symptoms of leukemia can include fever, fatigue, frequent infections, weight loss, easy bruising or bleeding, swollen lymph nodes, and pain or a feeling of fullness below the ribs (due to an enlarged spleen or liver). The treatment for leukemia often involves chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and in some cases, a stem cell or bone marrow transplant.
1. What is anemia?
Answer: Anemia is a condition where you don’t have enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to your body’s tissues. Common causes include nutritional deficiencies (like iron or vitamin B12), chronic diseases, or genetic conditions. Symptoms include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and shortness of breath.
2. What is iron deficiency anemia?
Answer: Iron deficiency anemia is a type of anemia caused by a lack of iron in the body, which is essential for producing hemoglobin in red blood cells. It can be caused by poor diet, heavy menstrual periods, blood loss, or an inability to absorb iron properly. Symptoms often include fatigue, dizziness, pale skin, and headaches.
3. What is sickle cell anemia?
Answer: Sickle cell anemia is a genetic disorder that causes red blood cells to become crescent-shaped (like a sickle) instead of round. These sickle-shaped cells can block blood flow, leading to pain, organ damage, and anemia. It is most common in people of African, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Indian ancestry.
4. What is leukemia?
Answer: Leukemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow, characterized by an abnormal increase in white blood cells. There are different types, including acute and chronic forms, and it can affect either lymphoid or myeloid cells. Symptoms can include fatigue, frequent infections, easy bruising, or abnormal bleeding.
5. What is lymphoma?
Answer: Lymphoma is a cancer that starts in the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system. There are two main types: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Symptoms include swollen lymph nodes, fever, weight loss, and night sweats.
6. What is hemophilia?
Answer: Hemophilia is a genetic disorder that affects blood clotting. People with hemophilia lack certain clotting factors, making it difficult for blood to clot properly and leading to prolonged bleeding after injuries or surgeries. It is more common in males and can vary in severity.
7. What is thrombocytopenia?
Answer: Thrombocytopenia is a condition where there are low levels of platelets in the blood. Platelets are important for blood clotting, so low platelet count can lead to easy bruising, excessive bleeding, and difficulty stopping bleeding. It can be caused by various factors, including bone marrow disorders, autoimmune diseases, or certain medications.
8. What are blood transfusions and when are they needed?
Answer: A blood transfusion is a medical procedure where blood is given to a patient through an intravenous (IV) line. It’s commonly used to treat conditions like anemia, blood loss from surgery or injury, or certain blood disorders like leukemia and sickle cell disease.
9. What is myeloma (multiple myeloma)?
Answer: Myeloma is a cancer that begins in plasma cells, a type of white blood cell found in the bone marrow. These cancerous plasma cells can grow uncontrollably and interfere with the production of normal blood cells. Symptoms may include bone pain, weakness, fatigue, and frequent infections.
10. How is a bone marrow biopsy performed?
Answer: A bone marrow biopsy is a procedure used to collect a sample of bone marrow, usually from the hip bone, to examine for abnormalities such as leukemia, lymphoma, anemia, or myeloma. The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia, and the sample is examined under a microscope.
11. What is a stem cell transplant?
Answer: A stem cell transplant is a procedure where damaged or diseased bone marrow is replaced with healthy stem cells, which can grow into new blood cells. This is often used to treat conditions like leukemia, lymphoma, or certain genetic blood disorders. It can involve either an autologous transplant (using the patient’s own stem cells) or an allogeneic transplant (using stem cells from a donor).
12. How are bleeding disorders diagnosed?
Answer: Bleeding disorders are typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and blood tests. Tests may include a complete blood count (CBC), clotting factor assays, or platelet function tests to evaluate the clotting ability of the blood.
13. What are the risk factors for blood cancers like leukemia or lymphoma?
Answer: Risk factors for blood cancers can include a family history of blood cancers, previous radiation or chemotherapy treatments, certain genetic conditions (such as Down syndrome), and exposure to chemicals like benzene. In some cases, the exact cause is unknown.
14. Can blood cancers be prevented?
Answer: While there is no guaranteed way to prevent blood cancers like leukemia or lymphoma, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals can lower the risk. Early detection and treatment also improve outcomes.
| Trial Title (currently running) | Trial ID | Sponsor/ CRO |
|---|---|---|
| A phase 3, single-arm, multicenter, multinational, open-label, one-way crossover study to investigate the efficacy and safety of fitusiran prophylaxis in male participants aged ≥ 12 years with severe haemophilia a or b, with or without inhibitory antibodies to factor viii or ix. | EFC17574 | Sanofi/ Icon |
| (Frontier 4) open-label, long-term safety and efficacy study of mim8 in participants with haemophilia a with or without inhibitors. | NN7769-4532 | Novo Nordisk/ Icon |
| A phase 3, two-stage, randomized, multicenter, open-label studycomparing mezigdomide (cc-92480), bortezomib and dexamethasone (mezivd) versus pomalidomide, bortezomib and dexamethasone (pvd) in subjects with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (rrmm): successor-1 | CA057-001 | BMS/ BMS |
| A prospective, single-arm, open-label, multi-center, phase i/ii study of the safety and efficacy of mycart-01 in patients with cd19+ relapsed or refractory b-cell malignancies (cart-nal). | MCr_CART-NAL01 | Micro Crispr/ Meril |
| Date | Title | Citation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Aug 2025 | Cross-sectional survey of haemophilia treatment centres (htcs) in india: towards a context‑sensitive stratification model | John, M.J., Shanmukhaiah, C., Aier, T., Sidharthan, N., Saxena, R., Apte, S., Abraham, A., Gupta, N., Nityanand, S., Ross, C., Seth, T. and Srivastava, A. (2025), Cross-Sectional Survey of Haemophilia Treatment Centres (HTCs) in India: Towards a Context‑Sensitive Stratification Model. Haemophilia. https://doi.org/10.1111/hae.70095 |
| 28 Jul 2025 | Re-evaluating european haemophilia standards: towards a more inclusive global framework | EMJ Hematol. 2025;13[1]:94-98. https://doi.org/10.33590/emjhematol/AYNE2390. |
| 25 Jun 2025 | Clinicohematological spectrum of chronic myeloid leukemia: a cross-sectional study from a tertiary care hospital in north india | Arnestina S, Kaur R, John J M (June 24, 2025) Clinicohematological Spectrum of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia: A Cross-Sectional Study From a Tertiary Care Hospital in North India. Cureus 17(6): e86680. doi: 10.7759/cureus.86680 |
| 5 Jun 2025 | Efficacy and safety of combining r-atg with ptcy for gvhd prophylaxis in haploidentical hsc transplantation for malignancies—a systematic review | John, J.M., Kulkarni, U., Pendharkar, D. and Jadhav, S. (2025), Efficacy and Safety of Combining r-ATG With PTCy for GvHD Prophylaxis in Haploidentical HSC Transplantation for Malignancies—A Systematic Review. J Cell Mol Med, 29: e70450. https://doi.org/10.1111/jcmm.70450 |
| 6 May 2025 | A survey of education and employment status of patients with transfusion-dependent thalassemia from a low-middle-income country. | Shruti Kakkar, Priyanka Dewan, Sukhmani Sidhu, Evani Jain, Anirudh Jain, Praveen C. Sobti, A survey of education and employment status of patients with transfusion-dependent thalassemia from a low-middle-income country., Pediatric Hematology Oncology Journal, 2025, |
| 5 May 2025 | Effectiveness of myofascial therapy (mft) along with traditional physiotherapy and intermittent prophylaxis on short-term improvement of joint health in hemophilic arthropathy: a randomized control trial | Makkar, M., Dhinakaran, M. S., Shukla, P., Sarwan, D., Ojha, S., & John, M. J. (2025). Effectiveness of myofascial therapy (MFT) along with traditional physiotherapy and intermittent prophylaxis on short-term improvement of joint health in hemophilic arthropathy: a randomized control trial. Expert Review of Hematology, 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1080/17474086.2025.2495674 |
Clinical Haematology in India has witnessed significant growth over the past two decades, driven by rapid advances in diagnostics, therapeutics, and stem cell transplantation. With the introduction of several new drugs and treatment modalities for haematological disorders, there is an increasing demand for trained specialists in this field.
The first DM (Doctorate of Medicine) program in Clinical Haematology in India was initiated at CMC Vellore in 1999. In recent years, several institutions have started similar programs across the country. However, in Punjab, the only existing DM programs are at PGIMER Chandigarh and Christian Medical College, Ludhiana.
Despite there being over 100 centers across India offering stem cell transplantation, only a limited number of medical colleges provide comprehensive training in this area. North of Delhi, CMC Ludhiana and PGIMER Chandigarh are the only centers with established allogeneic stem cell transplant programs.
Till now, five DM residents have passed out from our centre. We have completed a total of four batches of DM residency, and the fifth batch is currently ongoing.
Recognizing the need to train specialists in this critical field, CMC Ludhiana launched the DM Program in Clinical Haematology in 2019, affiliated with Baba Farid University of Health Sciences (BFUHS), Faridkot. The program aims to equip future haematologists with advanced clinical skills, research expertise, and ethical practice standards to meet the growing needs of patients with haematological disorders.
A Coagulation Masterclass was conducted on 16th August 2025, focusing on the latest advances in the diagnosis and management of coagulation disorders. The session featured expert discussions, interactive case presentations, and hands-on learning to enhance clinical understanding and laboratory correlation in coagulation testing.
A two-day Workshop on PICC Line Insertion, Care, and Maintenance was conducted on March 7–8, 2025, by the Department of Clinical Haematology & Haemato-Oncology, CMC Ludhiana. The workshop aimed to enhance the clinical skills and knowledge of nursing and medical staff in vascular access management.
The sessions included expert demonstrations, hands-on training, and interactive discussions on best practices for catheter insertion, infection prevention, line maintenance, and complication management. The program emphasized patient safety, quality care, and adherence to evidence-based clinical standards.
A DM Masterclass was conducted on October 25, 2024, by the Department of Clinical Haematology & Haemato-Oncology, CMC Ludhiana. The session was led by Dr. Mammen Chandy, a renowned haematologist and pioneer in bone marrow transplantation in India.The interactive session focused on recent advances in clinical haematology, case-based discussions, and training for DM residents to strengthen their diagnostic and therapeutic skills. Participants gained valuable insights into complex haematological disorders and current treatment approaches through Dr. Chandy’s vast clinical experience and expertise.
A Continuing Medical Education (CME) program on “BMT Updates” was held on October 26, 2024, organized by the Department of Clinical Haematology & Haemato-Oncology, CMC Ludhiana.
The CME focused on recent developments in Bone Marrow Transplantation (BMT), including advancements in transplant techniques, donor selection, post-transplant care, and emerging therapies. The event featured expert talks, interactive discussions, and case presentations aimed at enhancing clinical knowledge and collaborative practice among healthcare professionals.
Sep 3, 2025
Promoting Awareness and Early Detection for Stem Cell and Bone Marrow Transplants
A free HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigen) typing camp was successfully conducted in Tohana, Haryana, aimed at promoting awareness about stem cell and bone marrow donation. The initiative provided the local community with the opportunity to undergo HLA typing, a crucial step in identifying potential donors for patients in need of life-saving transplants.
Medical professionals emphasized the importance of early registration in donor databases and educated participants about the process of bone marrow and stem cell donation. The camp received an enthusiastic response, highlighting the growing awareness and willingness among the community to contribute towards saving lives.
Such initiatives not only encourage active participation in health programs but also play a vital role in building a robust donor registry for patients suffering from blood disorders and other critical illnesses.
Jun 10, 2025
A Milestone Collaboration to Strengthen Cancer and Blood Disorder Care in Punjab
On 10th June 2025, the Government of Punjab signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Christian Medical College & Hospital, Ludhiana, to establish the state’s first public sector Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) facility. This historic partnership marks a major step forward in providing advanced and affordable care for patients suffering from blood cancers and severe hematological disorders.
Jun 6, 2025
CMC Ludhiana Observes International Thalassemia Day – Spreading Awareness and Inspiring Hope
The Department of Clinical Haematology, Christian Medical College & Hospital, Ludhiana, observed International Thalassemia Day with an awareness program dedicated to supporting patients and families affected by Thalassemia, a major inherited blood disorder. The event aimed to educate the public about prevention, treatment options, and the importance of regular transfusions, iron chelation, and curative therapies like bone marrow transplantation.
Faculty members, medical staff, and students came together to reaffirm their commitment to improving the quality of life for Thalassemia patients through comprehensive care, counseling, and community support. The program also emphasized the importance of screening and genetic counseling to prevent the transmission of the disease.
Apr 26, 2025
CMC Ludhiana Observes 6th Annual Hemophilia Day – Promoting Awareness, Care, and Compassion
The Department of Clinical Haematology, Christian Medical College & Hospital, Ludhiana, in collaboration with the CSRC and Hemophilia Society (Ludhiana Chapter), organized the 6th Annual World Hemophilia Day awareness program on April 23, 2025. The event brought together doctors, nurses, patients, caregivers, and support staff to spread awareness about Hemophilia and other bleeding disorders.
The program began with a prayer of thanksgiving, followed by informative sessions on comprehensive care, physiotherapy, and psychosocial support for individuals living with hemophilia. Experts from multiple disciplines shared valuable insights on the importance of early diagnosis, regular follow-up, and access to safe treatment options.
Over 150 patients and family members participated in the event, which included educational talks, interactive discussions, and activities aimed at empowering patients and their caregivers. The event highlighted CMC Ludhiana’s ongoing commitment to improving the quality of life for individuals affected by bleeding disorders through education, compassion, and advanced medical care.
Jan 17, 2025
CMC Ludhiana Unveils Upgraded Bone Marrow Transplant Unit
The Department of Clinical Haematology, Haemato-Oncology & Bone Marrow (Stem Cell) Transplantation at Christian Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, inaugurated its upgraded Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) Unit, marking a significant advancement in comprehensive care for patients with blood cancers and severe hematological disorders.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by distinguished guests, faculty, and staff, highlighting the department’s continued commitment to excellence in patient care, research, and innovation.
The event symbolized not only a technological advancement but also a renewed promise of hope and healing for patients and families battling life-threatening diseases.
Jul 1, 2025
First collaborative event under the Punjab Government–CMC Ludhiana MoU to enhance thalassemia care and transplant access.
A Free HLA Typing Camp and Awareness Session on Stem Cell Transplantation was organized at Government Medical College (GMC), Amritsar, by the Department of Pediatrics, GMC Amritsar, and the Department of Clinical Haematology & BMT, CMC Ludhiana. The event, attended by over 200 participants, marked the first initiative following the Punjab Government–CMC Ludhiana MoU to strengthen thalassemia care.
The camp featured expert talks, patient testimonials, and free HLA typing of 20 thalassemia patients in collaboration with DKMS. The program reaffirmed the joint commitment to making curative stem cell transplantation accessible and affordable for children across Punjab.
Location:
Clinical Haematology Department
4th Floor, PP Wing
Christian Medical College & Hospital
Ludhiana, Punjab
Landmark:
Located near Ward 16 – Psychiatry Department
Directions within the Hospital:
Assistance:
If you need help finding us, please ask at the Reception on the ground floor or contact our department Office at +91-161-2115095, during working hours.
BMT Website – https://www.bmtcmcludhiana.in/
(Show the department’s cooperative efforts to broaden healthcare services and community outreach.)
11. Quality and Safety
a. Admissions report yearwise and monthwise
b. Bone Marrow Transplant report since 2008 to till now
c.Tumor Board Report yearwise and monthwise
