The blood of a person with hemophilia does not clot normally. A person with this disorder will not bleed more profusely or more quickly than other people; however, he bleeds for a longer time.
Both hemophilia A and B are very rare disorders. Hemophilia A affects fewer than 1 in 10,000 people, or about 2500 Canadians. Hemophilia B is even less common, affecting approximately 1 in 50,000 people, or about 500 Canadians. The most severe forms of hemophilia affect almost only males.
Is there a cure for hemophilia?
There is no cure yet for hemophilia. It is a life long condition, but the development of clotting factor concentrates has meant that hemophilia can be managed effectively.
Can women get hemophilia?
Although there are a few known cases, not many females have the severe forms of hemophilia. However, many female carriers suffer from symptoms of mild hemophilia, specifically heavy menstrual bleeding. In addition, females are just as likely as males to have von Willebrand Disease, a very common bleeding disorder, and women's symptoms are often more severe.
What is von Willebrand Disease (vWD)?
Von Willebrand Disease is the most common bleeding disorder. There are several types of von Willebrand Disease, and they are all caused by a problem with the von Willebrand Factor (vWF) in the blood. When there is not enough vWF present in the blood, or if the vWF does not work as it should, the blood does not clot normally.
Who can get von Willebrand Disease ?
Von Willebrand Disease is a hereditary (genetic) disorder. Men and woman have an equal chance of inheriting vWD. It is currently estimated that 1 in 100 Canadians may be affected by vWD. As with hemophilia there is nt cure for vWD, however, there are safe and effective treatments for all types of vWD.
Where do people get treatment for bleeding disorders?
In Canada, comprehensive care clinics have been established across the country to provide the medical services needed by persons with bleeding disorders and their families. The comprehensive care team consists of a hematologist, nurse coordinator, physiotherapist and social worker with specific expertise in managing the healthcare needs of persons with bleeding disorders.