World Haemophilia Day:Diagnosis first step to care: Experts

By Mansoor Peer
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17 Apr 2026

Srinagar, Apr 16: On World Haemophilia Day, observed on April 17, doctors in Kashmir have stressed the need for early diagnosis, awareness, and uninterrupted treatment facilities for patients suffering from bleeding disorders.

Dr Bilal Sheikh, Head of the Department of Pathology at Government Medical College Srinagar, said that a total of 468 cases have been registered at the Day Care Haemophilia Centre at Shri Maharaja Hari Singh Hospital, including patients with Hemophilia and allied bleeding disorders.

He said the centre has significantly upgraded its diagnostic capabilities, with around 30 new patients diagnosed and registered last year, reflecting improved screening and awareness. "Haemophilia is a genetic disorder inherited from parents. It is not an infectious disease. Maintaining adequate clotting factor levels is essential for managing the condition," Dr Bilal said.

Haemophilia is a rare inherited disorder that affects the body's ability to clot blood, leading to prolonged bleeding, easy bruising, and internal bleeding. It occurs due to low levels of clotting factor VIII (Haemophilia A) or IX (Haemophilia B). Symptoms include joint pain, swelling, muscle bruising, nosebleeds, and excessive bleeding after injuries or surgery.

The Day Care Haemophilia Centre at SHMS Hospital is the only dedicated facility of its kind in Kashmir. Responding to concerns about patient load, Dr Bilal said the centre is equipped with modern diagnostic and treatment infrastructure. "We have a well-equipped laboratory meeting global standards. All essential medicines, as per international guidelines, are available for patients," he said, adding that awareness programmes are being conducted across district and sub-district hospitals to promote early diagnosis and proper management.

To support patients from remote areas, the centre provides medicines closer to their homes. "Patients from Ladakh, Gurez, Karnah, Kupwara, and other far-flung areas are given medicines for up to three months to reduce travel burden," he said.

On shortages of clotting factors VIII and IX, which are often reported, Dr Bilal said procurement depends on government budget, rate contracts, and other administrative processes. "Ensuring a continuous supply chain is crucial. While occasional technical delays occur, we are making all efforts to maintain the availability of life-saving drugs," he said.

He stressed that early diagnosis remains key. "Anyone experiencing unusual or prolonged bleeding should seek medical help. We provide free diagnostic services, including specialised tests, at the centre," he added.

The theme for World Haemophilia Day 2026 is "Diagnosis: First Step to Care," highlighting the importance of timely and accurate diagnosis for effective treatment and better quality of life.