World Haemophilia Day is a global initiative to raise awareness about haemophilia–a rare inherited bleeding disorder. It is observed every year on April 17, highlighting the gravity of the disorder and the need for proper treatment. It also encourages the people who are suffering from haemophilia to advocate for better healthcare solutions.
World Haemophilia Day was founded in 1989 by the World Federation of Haemophilia to honour its founder Frank Schnabel, who played a pivotal role in raising awareness about haemophilia and dedicated his life to serving people suffering from the disorder.
Over the years it evolved into a global movement as people started to recognize the problem and the importance of treatment. However, the disease was also named ‘royal disease’ after the queen of Egypt was affected by haemophilia.
The significance of the day is beyond awareness. It is the day to evaluate the progress and identify the challenges that remain. It emphasizes the seriousness of the disease and the need for life-saving treatments, especially in regions with limited healthcare access.
The disease hinders the blood’s ability to clot properly and leads to other issues including joint pain, low bone density, and internal bleeding. The day stands for educating people about the reasons, problems, symptoms and the treatment process of haemophilia.
It also breaks the stigma and misconceptions about the bleeding disorder and urges the government and society to support affected individuals. Patients with haemophilia also deserve a regular life with dignity, improved health and opportunity.
