Regarding your recent article on "china dolls," I have watched several reports on TV. Most families with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) patients are impoverished by the high treatment costs, as they often rely on imported medicines. However, OI is just the tip of the iceberg – there are other types of rare genetic diseases that demand medical attention for years or even the whole of life. Although these patients have drawn much public attention, there is still a long way to go to improve their living conditions. I'm glad you pointed out that at present, very limited social assistance is available to them. Facing difficulties getting an education or employment, it is hard for them to gain independence. More favorable policies are needed to protect this vulnerable group.

Tiffany Jiang

Shanghai, China