Boy becomes first in UK to receive revolutionary gene-editing treatment

Health & Fitness
29 Jan 2026 • 10:21 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • A 13-year-old boy, Adam Rehman, has returned to the hospital to thank staff after receiving a revolutionary gene-editing treatment for thalassaemia.
  • Adam was one of the first children in the UK to undergo the one-time Casgevy (exa-cel) therapy, which costs £1.65 million.
  • The treatment uses Crispr gene-editing technology to modify his own stem cells, enabling his body to produce healthy red blood cells.
  • Born with beta-thalassaemia, Adam previously required monthly blood transfusions since he was eight months old.
  • The therapy has given Adam "freedom back", allowing him to enjoy activities he couldn't before, according to his nurse.

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