World Haemophilia Day 2025 - Thursday, Apr 17 2025

April 17 is celebrated as World Haemophilia Day across the globe by Haemophilia organizations. Celebration of this day is a broad step to increase awareness among people around the world about the hereditary genetic disorder called Haemophilia. World Hemophilia Day is observed annually on April 17th. Established by the World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH) in 1989, this day aims to raise awareness about hemophilia and other bleeding disorders. The date was chosen to honor the birthday of Frank Schnabel, the founder of WFH.

Haemophilia

Hemophilia is a lifelong genetic bleeding disorder that prevents blood from clotting properly. The disease is only caused in males while females only serve as the carrier of the disease. Disease is only inherited from infected fathers to their sons. In rare cases, it can also be caused by mutation in gene of mother or child.

People with hemophilia do not have enough clotting factor, a protein in blood that controls bleeding. The severity of a person’s hemophilia depends on the amount of clotting factor that is missing. The main danger is uncontrolled internal bleeding that starts spontaneously or results from injury. Bleeding into joints and muscles can cause stiffness, pain, severe joint damage, disability, and sometimes death.

The objectives of World Hemophilia Day include:

1. Raising Awareness: Increasing public understanding and awareness of hemophilia and other bleeding disorders.
2. Encouraging Diagnosis and Treatment: Promoting better diagnosis and access to treatment for those affected by bleeding disorders.
3. Supporting Advocacy: Encouraging advocacy efforts to improve healthcare policies and support systems for people with hemophilia.
4. Fostering Global Solidarity: Bringing together the global community to support and advocate for individuals with hemophilia.

Celebrating World Hemophilia Day typically involves a variety of activities and events aimed at raising awareness and supporting those affected by hemophilia and other bleeding disorders. Here are some common ways the day is celebrated:

1. Educational Seminars and Workshops: Organizations and medical institutions often hold seminars and workshops to educate the public, healthcare professionals, and patients about hemophilia, its treatment, and management.

2. Community Events: Many communities organize events such as walks, runs, and sports activities to raise awareness and funds for hemophilia research and support programs.

3. Lighting Up Landmarks: Iconic landmarks around the world are illuminated in red, the color associated with hemophilia awareness, to draw attention to the cause.

4. Media Campaigns: Social media campaigns, television and radio programs, and newspaper articles help spread information about hemophilia and the challenges faced by those living with the condition.

5. Fundraising Activities: Various fundraising events, such as charity auctions, dinners, and concerts, are held to support research and provide resources for people with hemophilia.

6. Patient Support and Advocacy: Support groups and advocacy organizations use the day to amplify their efforts in advocating for better healthcare policies, access to treatment, and overall support for people with hemophilia.

7. Virtual Events: In recent years, virtual events have become more common, including webinars, online discussions, and virtual fundraisers, allowing participation from a global audience.

8. Health Screenings and Clinics: Some organizations provide free health screenings and clinics to encourage early diagnosis and proper management of hemophilia.

Each year's theme is selected to draw attention to specific issues and to inspire action within the global community, aiming to improve the lives of those affected by hemophilia and other bleeding disorders. The World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH) typically announces the theme in advance of World Hemophilia Day to allow for planning and coordination of activities and events around the theme.

Here are some of the themes from recent years:

• 2023: "Access for All: Prevention of bleeds as the global standard of care" - Focused on improving access to treatment to prevent bleeding episodes, ensuring better quality of life for people with hemophilia.

• 2022: "Access for All: Partnership. Policy. Progress." - Emphasized the need for collaboration and partnerships to improve access to care and treatment globally.

• 2021: "Adapting to Change: Sustaining care in a new world" - Addressed the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the importance of maintaining care during difficult times.

• 2020: "Get+involved" - Encouraged community participation and involvement in advocacy and support efforts.

• 2019: "Reaching out: The first step to care" - Highlighted the importance of reaching out to the undiagnosed and ensuring they have access to proper care and treatment.

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