About Hemophilia
Diya Welfare Organization
What is Hemophilia?
Hemophilia is a genetic disorder where the patient experiences excessive bleeding due to the body’s inability to clot blood properly. This is caused by a deficiency in specific clotting factors. Interestingly, while females typically carry the gene, hemophilia primarily affects males. Though not always immediately fatal unless a major bleed occurs in a vital organ, the chronic pain, risk of severe joint damage, and daily challenges can profoundly impact a person’s quality of life. Tragically, many individuals with hemophilia have faced immense suffering due to this condition.
The root cause of hemophilia is an inherited genetic mutation leading to insufficient anti-hemophilic factor (AHF). There is currently no permanent cure for this disorder. In Pakistan, the main line of treatment for internal or external bleeds involves supplementing the patient’s AHF levels, often through fresh blood transfusions. However, for severe injuries, the large quantity of blood needed can be overwhelming for the body, underscoring the critical need for more concentrated AHF therapies. For a deeper understanding of how this condition is passed through families, you can learn more about how hemophilia is inherited.
While products like Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP) and Cryoprecipitate are used to supplement AHF, the required quantities can still be significant. In many countries, highly purified AHF concentrates have been developed, making treatment more manageable. However, in Pakistan, these advanced human blood products remain extremely costly, posing a substantial financial burden. For instance, a mild hemophilia patient might need 20,000–30,000 units annually, at a high cost per unit. This is why Diya Welfare Organization in Sialkot is dedicated to offering free care and support, bridging the gap in access to essential hemophilia treatment in Pakistan. For more of the general information on global hemophilia care, visit the World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH).