Physical Wellness

World Hemophilia Day 2016: 5 Facts You Didn't Know About The Bleeding Disorder

By Sara Gale | Update Date: Apr 16, 2016 07:18 AM EDT

World Hemophilia Day, which is observed on 17th April, every year, is aimed at creating awareness about people suffering from hemophilia and other inherited bleeding disorders.

The World Federation of Hemophilia notes that one in 1000 people in the world has a bleeding disorder but in most cases people diagnosed of the disorder don't receive the required medical aid. Since awareness about the condition among people is less, the World Hemophilia Day creates an opportunity for people to discuss and share information on the bleeding disorders among family and friends.

World Hemophilia Day 2016 is recognized by many welfare organizations as well as pharmaceutical companies that are involved in developing drugs for such disorders to show their support and give hope for ailing people around the world.

"Developing innovative treatments and educational programs that holistically meet the needs of patients and caregivers is what drives us every day at Novo Nordisk," said Eddie Williams, senior vice president, Biopharmaceuticals, Novo Nordisk Inc, noted in the press release.

"This World Hemophilia Day [2016], our efforts are further fueled by the partnerships we have within the bleeding disorders community to ensure our educational offerings not only resonate with the community, but continue to address their needs," Williams added.

Hemophilia is a disorder that is not developed by a person during their course of life but inherited from parents through genes. In rare cases, people develop the condition during their lifetime, which is referred to as acquired hemophilia. The disorder is acquired when antibodies formed in ones' own body attacks and kills the clotting factors in the blood.

People born with the disorder have little or completely lack a protein that assist in clotting of blood. In case of injury, they bleed excessively as blood clotting doesn't happen as quickly as in normal people.

 While small cuts or external injuries don't cause much of a problem, internal bleeding like in elbows, knees and ankles are much of a concern. Generally internal bleeding is relatively symptomless and it can damage the tissues and organs leading to life-threatening conditions.

Hemophilia is of two types, Hemophilia A and B. People with Hemophilia A lack clotting factor VIII (8) and those with Hemophilia B lack clotting factor IX (9). Type A is regarded more common since about eight out of 10 people lack or have low levels of clotting factor VIII.

Lifestyle has a role to play in the intervention of bleeding disorders. Exercising regularly helps in strengthening bones and muscles in people with the condition. Avoiding painkillers and blood thinning medication as well as maintaining good oral hygiene help in preventing various serious outcomes.

© 2023 Counsel & Heal All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.

Join the Conversation

Real Time Analytics