World Hemophilia Day is annually observed across the globe on 17th April to create awareness about Hemophilia, an inherited bleeding disorder in which the blood does not clot properly.
17th April 2023 marks the 34th World Hemophilia Day.
- The annual observance of the day is organised by the World Federation of Hemophilia(WFH).
The theme of World Hemophilia Day 2023 is “Access for All: Prevention of bleeds as the global standard of care”.
The main objective of this theme is to urge local policymakers and governments to improve access to care, with a specific focus on better prevention and bleeding control for all individuals with bleeding disorders (PWBDs).
Significance:
The observance of the day offers a platform to increase awareness and educate people about hemophilia and other bleeding disorders.
Background:
i.World Hemophilia Day was initiated by the World Federation of Hemophilia(WFH) in 1989.
ii.The first ever World Hemophilia Day was observed on 17th April 1989.
Why April 17?
The observance of World Hemophilia Day on 17th April marks the commemoration of the birth anniversary of Frank Schnabel, founder of the World Federation of Hemophilia(WFH).
What is Hemophilia?
Hemophilia is a rare condition which can lead to spontaneous bleeding as well as bleeding following injuries or surgery.
Hemophilia occurs in about 1 of every 5,000 male births.
Cause:
Hemophilia is caused by a mutation or change, in one of the genes, that provides instructions for making the clotting factor proteins needed to form a blood clot.
Type:
There are several different types of hemophilia. The following two are the most common:
- Hemophilia A (Classic Hemophilia) – This type is caused by a lack or decrease of clotting factor VIII.
- Hemophilia B (Christmas Disease) – This type is caused by a lack or decrease of clotting factor IX.
About World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH):
The World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving and sustaining care for people with inherited bleeding disorders
President– Cesar Garrido(Venezuela)
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)– Alain Baumann
Headquarters– Montréal, Québec, Canada
