Hemophilia is an inherited bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency or defect of one of the proteins necessary for blood to properly clot. These proteins are known as clotting factors. The type and severity of a person's hemophilia depends on which protein is involved and to what degree they are deficient. Hemophilia should be suspected in anyone who has easy bruising, bleeding into joints and muscles, spontaneous bleeding and/or prolonged bleeding.

The most common types of hemophilia are Hemophilia A (classic hemophilia), which is a deficiency of factor VIII, and Hemophilia B (Christmas disease), which is a deficiency of factor IX. Hemophiliacs do not bleed faster than others; they bleed longer because their blood does not clot properly. Bleeding into joints, muscles, and even vital organs, like the brain, can occur. Bleeding can be life threatening. Over a period of time, this bleeding can lead to chronic pain, arthritis, deformity and disability. Although hemophilia can occur in women (extremely rare), it affects mostly males and occurs in 1 in every 7,500 male births.

Treatment of hemophilia is aimed at replacing the deficient clotting factor. This is done via infusions of concentrates containing the needed factor. Many patients are on a home infusion program whereby they self-infuse the clotting factor concentrate when they bleed. This ensures prompt treatment, and gives them greater independence and more control over managing their disorder. There are several product options for people with hemophilia, including factor that is synthetic as well as plasma derived.

The costs of treating hemophilia vary based on the severity of the disease and the uniqueness of the individual. The costs can range between $100,000 - $200,000 per year, or more. Early recognition and prompt treatment of bleeds can help keep these costs down as well as reduce disability.

Hemophilia is a hereditary bleeding disorder that is life-long. At present, there is no cure for hemophilia. However, there are many resources available to individuals living with this chronic disorder.