Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month

Inhibitors

March is Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month! Hemophilia and von Willebrand Disease (VWD) are examples of bleeding disorders. People with hemophilia and VWD can experience excessive and longer-than-usual bleeding, known as bleeding episodes, because their blood lacks the proteins needed for bleeding to stop (a process known as coagulation). Hemophilia primarily affects men, and VWD affects men and women equally.

People with hemophilia have a better quality of life today than ever before, but medical complications can still occur. Developing an inhibitor, or antibody to a hemophilia treatment product, is one of the most serious and costly medical complications of a bleeding disorder because it becomes more difficult to treat bleeds. Finding an inhibitor early and receiving treatment can lower the chances for developing serious health problems. The sooner it is discovered, the quicker you can get treatment.

During Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will send out several digital newsletters highlighting information, helpful tips, and various resources to help raise awareness about bleeding disorders.

We are kicking off Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month by sharing information and resources about inhibitors, a challenging complication of a bleeding disorder.