DMD Association appeals for Givinostat therapy access in BiH

The Association for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy in Bosnia and Herzegovina, alongside Federal Delegate Dr. Fatima Gavrankapetanović-Smailbegović, has issued an urgent appeal to authorities to ensure access to Givinostat therapy for children in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Currently, 36 boys in the Federation are diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), with 15 meeting the specific medical indications required for Givinostat treatment. Association President Mustafa Handžić noted that despite numerous requests, urgencies, and initiatives sent to relevant institutions over the past nine months, no official confirmation has been received regarding when the therapy will be available.

Following a media conference held in front of the Federal Ministry of Health, representatives met with the Assistant Minister of Health for the pharmaceutical and chemical sector. The Ministry reported that steps have been taken, including an inquiry sent to the Health Insurance and Reinsurance Institute regarding financial aspects. While parents have considered mass protests, the Association is currently seeking an institutional resolution to provide the life-altering therapy to those in need.