World Hemophilia Day: Expert Shares Insights On The Condition, Its Types, And Common Myths

Nobody likes getting cuts, but it is inevitable of course. However, what makes it worse is when from even a minor cut, your blood won't stop. This may be because you have hemophilia. It is a rare genetic disorder, but it could happen when your blood does not clot and make your bleeding slow down or stop.

As per Dr Satyaranjan Das, who is the Director of Haemato-Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant at Max Super Specialty Hospital, Noida, there are five types of hemophilia. It is an illness where the blood does not clot as it should. Normally, there are specific proteins called clotting factors that stop the bleeding in hemophilia, one of these factors is either missing or does not work correctly under this condition, explains Das.

The Types of Hemophilia:

• Hemophilia A is the most common. It happens when the body doesn't have enough Factor VIII.
• Hemophilia B (otherwise known as Christmas disease) occurs due to decreased levels of Factor IX.
• Hemophilia C is rare and generally less severe. It is due to deficiency in Factor XI.

"Gene for Hemophilia A and B are inherited via the X-chromosome, and hence they mainly affect boys. Girls can carry the gene and occasionally develop symptoms. Hemophilia C is different—it affects men and women and is more common in some Jewish families," explains the doctor.

What Are The Other Kinds Of Hemophilia or bleeding disorder?

The doctor notes that there are a few other rare conditions of other factors involved in clotting (e.g., Factor II, V, VII, X, XII, and XIII). These are some of the non-hemophiliac causes of unusual bleeding.

Acquired Hemophilia is also where the immune system of the body attacks its own Factor VIII. It is not hereditary and usually occurs in adulthood, mainly in elderly or during post pregnancy. "Symptoms may include bruising and bleeding that occurs too easily. Some people experience painful bleeds in joints, which, if not treated, can damage joints," explains the doctor.

What People Must Know About Hemophilia?

Dr Das explains that while it is not a very prevalent disorder, hemophilia is filled with myths and he are the two common myths around the condition that the doctor breaks.

Myth: Hemophilia is just a bleeding disorder

Hemophilia is erroneously considered to be just a bleeding disorder, but it's a complex disorder that affects many aspects of a person's life. Hemophilia patients may experience chronic pain, limited mobility and mental anguish due to recurrent bleeding episodes.

Myth: Hemophilia Is Contagious

Hemophilia has been misperceived by some as an infectious disease, but it is actually inherited. Hemophilia patients are not contagious and must not be treated as pariahs, but equally with respect and dignity like any human being.

How Can It Be Diagnosed? How Can It Be Treated?

Doctor explains that a blood test can show what clotting factor is lacking. Treatment may include providing the missing factor through infusions. With proper treatment, most people with hemophilia can lead a normal, active life.

Treatment of hemophilia for health is much improved now. New treatment is easier and safer. Gene therapy even has the potential to prevent or reduce the necessity for ongoing treatment in some people. Hemophilia children today have improved prospects of becoming healthy and independent adults because there is more awareness and availability of health care.