In recognition of World Hemophilia Day (WHD), Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) recently hosted a two-day event to raise awareness about hemophilia, a group of inherited bleeding disorders.

The educational event was jointly organized by the Pharmacy Department and Pediatric Hematology/Oncology at Hamad General Hospital (HGH), with support from Qatar Friends Hemophiliac Group (QFHG).

More than 120 participants attended the event, including hematologists, nurses, pharmacists, dentists and physiotherapists as well as patients, their families and caregivers.

Featuring a number of interesting lectures and specialized workshops for healthcare professionals, along with fun activities for patients and families, the event embraced the WHD 2015 theme, which stressed the importance of “building a family of support” for individuals living with bleeding disorders.

Commenting on the importance of WHD, Dr. Ahmed Abdulaziz, Clinical Pharmacist at HGH and one of the chief organizers of the event stated: “This is an excellent opportunity for us to raise awareness and advocate for people affected by different kinds of bleeding disorders in Qatar. The event builds on HMC’s commitment to providing the safest, most effective and most compassionate care to each and every one of our patients.”

“We encourage individuals across different disciplines to promote discussions and think of ways that will improve the quality of life for those living with this condition,” he added.

Hemophilia occurs due to defects in the body’s blood vessels or the coagulation mechanism, which is responsible for coagulating (clotting) blood from a liquid into a solid, after surgery or injury.

“An affected individual does not bleed more profusely or faster than other people, however, he bleeds for a longer time. These hemorrhages commonly occur in joints, especially knees, ankles and elbows, and into tissues and muscles,” Dr. Abdulaziz described.

He highlighted that a comprehensive care clinic located in HGH provides all required medical services to affected individuals and their families. This includes basic treatment to stop or prevent bleeding, known as the factor replacement therapy that involves injecting the medication into the patient’s bloodstream.

“Although medication is expensive, dedicated staff from HGH’s Pharmacy and Pediatric Hematology/Oncology services ensures that adequate supply is maintained at all times. HGH social workers also play a significant role in extending financial support to patients seeking the hospital’s services. They organize regular workshops and information sessions to educate patients about the safe use of injections, in addition to carrying out medical research to enhance patients’ quality of life,” Dr. Abdulaziz noted.

“Presently, over 120 patients with rare bleeding disorders, including children and adults, receive medication (clotting factor) from pharmacies at HGH and the National Center for Cancer Care and Research (NCCCR),” he added.

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QNE

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