Learning about haemophilia will help healthcare providers and those affected by the genetic blood disorder better manage the condition and prevent potential complications, according to an expert at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC).
Approximately 55 patients with haemophilia were admitted to facilities across HMC for treatment last year.
Haemophilia is a rare bleeding disorder that prevents blood from clotting properly. Common symptoms of the disease can include frequent nosebleeds, unexplained and uncontrolled bleeding and bruising, and painful or swollen joints.
While more common in males, the disorder affects both males and females from all racial and ethnic backgrounds. The disease is categorised as haemophilia A and B and can be classified as mild, moderate, or severe. Haemophilia A, known as classical haemophilia, is the most common form and accounts for around 80% of cases. It is the result of a deficiency in clotting factor 8. Haemophilia B is a deficiency in clotting factor 9 and is a gender-linked recessive disorder that is more common in males than females.
According to Dr Ahmed Abdulaziz Abdelbari, clinical pharmacist at HMC, and a haemophilia expert, preventive measures and early treatment have significantly improved the long-term outlook for patients with haemophilia. He says understanding the disease’s symptoms will lead to better management of the condition, which can be life-threatening.
“When a person without haemophilia bleeds, normal levels of clotting factor, a protein in the blood, causes the blood to clot and stops the bleeding. However, people with haemophilia have lower levels of clotting factor in the blood and bleeding continues for much longer periods. Haemophilia is a lifelong disorder and it is important for those affected by the condition to have knowledge of its symptoms in order to properly manage these effectively,” stressed Dr Abdelbari.
Individuals with haemophilia can bleed excessively externally, through cuts for example, and internally. Internal bleeding in the tissues and joints can lead to serious injury. It can also cause joint problems later in life if appropriate medical care is not taken. 
 “With proper knowledge, individuals living with the disorder can play an active role in managing their own care. Through the use of state-of-the-art haemophilia medications, such as long-acting therapies and even gene therapy, when available, healthcare professionals are helping ensure an excellent quality of life for patients with haemophilia,” stated Dr Abdelbari.