World Hemophilia Day is observed every year on April 17 to spread awareness about hemophilia and other bleeding disorders.This day helps people understand the condition, promote early diagnosis, and improve access to treatment for those affected.It is also a day to show support for those living with hemophilia and to work towards better healthcare solutions for them.
What is Hemophilia?
Hemophilia is a rare disorder where blood doesn't clot properly.People with hemophilia bleed longer than usual because their blood lacks clotting factors, which are proteins that help control bleeding.This means even a small injury can cause excessive bleeding, both externally and internally.In severe cases, internal bleeding can occur without any apparent injury, leading to complications such as joint damage or even life-threatening situations.
Types of Hemophilia
There are two main types of hemophilia:
Caused by low levels of clotting factor VIII, this is the most common type.About 80% of hemophilia cases fall into this category.
Caused by low levels of clotting factor IX, this type is less common but has similar symptoms.
There is also a very rare form called Hemophilia C, which is caused by a deficiency of clotting factor XI.Unlike Hemophilia A and B, which mainly affect males, Hemophilia C can affect both males and females equally.
World Hemophilia Day 2025 Theme
Every year, the World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH) announces a theme to focus on important issues related to hemophilia.The theme for 2025 highlights the need for better healthcare and access to treatment for everyone with hemophilia.The theme will emphasize the importance of providing equal treatment opportunities to people across different regions and economic backgrounds.
Why is World Hemophilia Day Important?
This day is important because it helps people understand hemophilia and other bleeding disorders.
Encourages early diagnosis and proper treatment.
Supports better healthcare policies.
Gives a voice to people living with hemophilia.
Promotes scientific research to find better treatments and, hopefully, a cure in the future.
Educates people on how to provide first aid and emergency care for individuals with hemophilia.
History of World Hemophilia Day
World Hemophilia Day was started in 1989 by the WFH in honor of its founder, Frank Schnabel.Since then, it has been observed worldwide to spread awareness and improve the lives of people with hemophilia.
What Causes Hemophilia?
Hemophilia is usually inherited, meaning it is passed from parents to children through genes.It is linked to the X chromosome, which is why it mostly affects males.In some cases, hemophilia happens due to a gene mutation.
Symptoms of Hemophilia
Symptoms of hemophilia can range from mild to severe.The severity depends on how much clotting factor is present in the blood. Common symptoms include:
Severe hemophilia can cause spontaneous bleeding in muscles, joints, and even the brain, which can be life-threatening if not treated quickly.
Why is World Hemophilia Day Significant?
This day helps to increase funding for research and treatment. Educate people about managing the condition. Improve healthcare access for those who need it. Encourage governments to take action for better care. Support initiatives that provide clotting factor medications to people in developing countries who may not have access to them.
How is Hemophilia Treated?
There is no full cure for hemophilia, but it can be managed with treatments such as:
Cryoprecipitate in Hemophilia Treatment - Cryoprecipitate is a component of plasma that contains a high concentration of clotting factors, particularly factor VIII, von Willebrand factor, and fibrinogen. It is obtained by slowly freezing and then thawing plasma, which allows these proteins to precipitate out.
Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP) in Hemophilia Treatment - Fresh frozen plasma is the liquid portion of whole blood, separated and frozen shortly after donation. It contains all clotting factors, including factors V, VIII, IX, and fibrinogen.
Replacement Therapy – Infusing clotting factors into the blood to stop or prevent bleeding.This is the most common treatment and can be done on demand (when bleeding occurs) or as a preventive measure (regular infusions to reduce bleeding risks).
Desmopressin (DDAVP) – A medicine that helps the body release stored clotting factors.This treatment is mainly used for mild Hemophilia A.
Gene Therapy – A new research area that aims to correct the genetic defect causing hemophilia.Some gene therapy trials have shown promising results, and in the future, this could lead to a permanent cure.
Physical Therapy – Helps prevent joint damage caused by repeated bleeding in joints.
Avoiding Certain Medications – People with hemophilia need to avoid blood-thinning drugs like aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can worsen bleeding.
Article By Dr. Gaurav Dixit
Unit Head - Haemato Oncology
Artemis Hospitals
Frequently Asked Questions
What is World Hemophilia Day?
World Hemophilia Day is an international event observed on April 17 to spread awareness about hemophilia and other bleeding disorders.
When is World Hemophilia Day observed?
It is observed every year on April 17.
Why is World Hemophilia Day celebrated?
The day is celebrated to raise awareness, improve access to treatment, and support people living with hemophilia. It also aims to ensure equal treatment opportunities for all patients, regardless of their location or financial situation.
How common is hemophilia?
Hemophilia is a rare condition, affecting about 1 in 5,000 male births. Hemophilia A is more common than Hemophilia B.
How is hemophilia diagnosed?
Doctors diagnose hemophilia through blood tests that check clotting factor levels. In some cases, genetic testing is done to determine if a person carries the hemophilia gene.
Can hemophilia be cured?
There is no complete cure yet, but treatments like clotting factor infusions and gene therapy can help manage the condition and improve the quality of life for those affected.
What challenges do people with hemophilia face?
People with hemophilia may struggle with:
Limited access to treatment in certain countries.
High medical costs.
Joint damage from repeated internal bleeding.
Social stigma and misunderstanding about the disorder.
The need for lifelong medical care and careful monitoring.
Why is it important to raise awareness about hemophilia?
Raising awareness helps with early diagnosis, better treatment access, and improving the lives of those affected. By spreading the word on World Hemophilia Day 2025, we can help people with hemophilia live healthier lives and push for better healthcare support worldwide.
