World Haemophilia Day, observed on April 17th every year, serves as a global platform to raise awareness about haemophilia and other bleeding disorders. This day is significant for highlighting the challenges faced by individuals living with haemophilia and advocating for better access to treatment and care. 
In this blog, let us understand about this disease, the theme and significance of World Haemophilia Day 2024, and dispel five common myths surrounding this disorder, aiming to foster greater understanding and support for those affected by it.
Haemophilia is a genetic bleeding disorder characterized by a deficiency or dysfunction of certain blood clotting factors, particularly factor VIII (hemophilia A) or factor IX (hemophilia B). This deficiency impairs the blood's ability to clot effectively, leading to prolonged bleeding episodes, even from minor injuries or spontaneous bleeding into muscles, joints, or other tissues.
Haemophilia is typically inherited, with symptoms varying in severity depending on the level of clotting factor present. While there is no cure for haemophilia, treatment aims to manage symptoms and prevent complications through clotting factor replacement therapy, medications, and other supportive measures.
Also Read: World Hemophilia Day: How Your Diet Can Make A Difference
Theme and Significance:
The theme for World Haemophilia Day 2024 is ‘Equitable access for all: recognizing all bleeding disorders’. This theme mainly emphasizes the different types of bleeding disorders and the importance of providing equal opportunities of treatment for people suffering from bleeding disorders, regardless of their geographical location or socioeconomic status. World Haemophilia Day serves as an opportunity to unite communities, raise awareness, and advocate for improved treatment, care, and support services for those living with bleeding disorders.
Thus, to keep the general public aware of this bleeding disorder, on the occasion of World haemophilia Day 2024, here are some popular fallacies associated with haemophilia disease refuted, along with the necessary scientific facts.
Busting 5 Myths Regarding Haemophilia
#Myth 1:
Haemophilia only affects males.
Fact:
While haemophilia is more commonly diagnosed in males, females can also inherit and be affected by the disorder. Female carriers of the haemophilia gene may experience symptoms such as excessive bleeding during menstruation or childbirth, and they can pass the gene on to their children.
#Myth 2:
People with haemophilia should avoid physical activity.
Fact:
While individuals with haemophilia need to take precautions to prevent injuries that could lead to bleeding episodes, regular physical activity is essential for maintaining overall health and fitness. With proper management and guidance from healthcare professionals, individuals with haemophilia can safely participate in a variety of activities, including sports and exercise.
#Myth 3:
Bleeding episodes in haemophilia are always visible.
Fact:
While external bleeding, such as nosebleeds and bruises, is common in haemophilia, internal bleeding can also occur without visible symptoms. Internal bleeding, particularly into joints and muscles, can cause pain, swelling, and reduced mobility, requiring prompt medical attention.
#Myth 4:
Haemophilia can be cured with a simple treatment.
Fact:
Currently, there is no cure for haemophilia. Treatment typically involves replacing the deficient clotting factor through intravenous infusions of clotting factor concentrates. While these treatments can help control bleeding episodes and prevent complications, they require ongoing management and monitoring.
#Myth 5:
People with haemophilia have a shorter lifespan.
Fact:
With advancements in treatment and care, individuals with haemophilia can lead full and productive lives. By following a comprehensive treatment plan, including regular monitoring, prophylactic treatment, and preventive measures, individuals with haemophilia can manage their condition effectively and enjoy a good quality of life.
Conclusion:
World Haemophilia Day serves as a vital platform to raise awareness, foster understanding, and advocate for the needs of individuals living with haemophilia and other bleeding disorders. By uniting efforts globally, we can strive towards improving access to treatment, supporting research for better therapies, and promoting inclusivity and empowerment for those affected by this condition.
References:
- Hemophilia - By Parth Mehta; Anil Kumar Reddy Reddivari.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551607/
- Recent Advances in the Treatment of Hemophilia: A Review - By Emanuela Marchesini,1 Massimo Morfini,2 and Leonard Valentino3,4
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8214539/
