
On April 17, 2024, the global bleeding disorders community comes together to commemorate #WorldHemophiliaDay. The theme of the event this year is “Equitable access for all: recognizing all bleeding disorders”. The World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH) vision of Treatment for All is for a world where all people with inherited bleeding disorders have access to care, regardless of their type of bleeding disorder, gender, age, or where they live.
Hemophilia is a genetic bleeding disorder in which blood does not clot properly due to a deficiency in specific clotting factors, primarily Factor VIII (hemophilia A) or Factor IX (hemophilia B).
This results in prolonged bleeding after injury and, in severe cases, can lead to spontaneous bleeding, especially in joints and muscles.
KEY POINTS
Types of Hemophilia
The most common types are hemophilia A (caused by a lack of Factor VIII) and hemophilia B (caused by a lack of Factor IX). Hemophilia A is more prevalent than hemophilia B.
Genetics
Hemophilia is an inherited disorder, usually passed down through the X chromosome. Males are more likely to have the condition, while females can be carriers without showing symptoms.
Symptoms
Common symptoms include easy bruising, frequent nosebleeds, prolonged bleeding from cuts, and spontaneous bleeding in joints and muscles.
Diagnosis
Hemophilia is diagnosed through blood tests that measure clotting factor levels.
Management
Treatment involves replacing the missing clotting factor with injections of concentrated factor VIII or IX. This helps manage and prevent bleeding episodes.
It’s crucial for people with hemophilia and their caregivers to recognize signs of severe bleeding (e.g., headache, abdominal pain, severe joint pain) and seek medical attention immediately.
LIFESTYLE
People with hemophilia should follow these guidelines:
- Avoid contact sports to minimize the risk of injury.
- Use protective gear like helmets for added safety.
- Engage in regular exercise to build strength and balance, reducing the chance of injury.
- Develop a plan at home to manage bleeding incidents.
- Learn to recognize when bleeding becomes an emergency.
Advancements in medical treatments have significantly improved the prognosis and quality of life for individuals with hemophilia. If you have specific concerns about hemophilia, please consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice.
PREPAREDNESS IS PARAMOUNT
Empower yourself with a First Aid Kit packed to handle emergencies confidently, from minor cuts to major mishaps.