World Haemophilia Day
Treatment for all — no one should bleed for lack of access to care.
About
World Haemophilia Day on April 17 raises awareness of haemophilia and other inherited bleeding disorders. Haemophilia is a genetic condition in which the blood does not clot properly, leading to prolonged bleeding from even minor cuts or injuries and spontaneous bleeding into joints and muscles. It primarily affects males. There are an estimated 1.1 million people globally living with haemophilia, but the majority — particularly in low- and middle-income countries — have no access to treatment. Without factor replacement therapy, haemophilia leads to painful joint damage, disability, and in severe cases, life-threatening bleeding. The World Federation of Hemophilia coordinates the day with a focus on the 'treatment for all' goal: expanding access to safe, effective clotting factor concentrates to the millions who currently go without. Advocacy on this day targets healthcare budgets, blood product safety, and research funding for gene therapies that could potentially cure the condition.
History
April 17 was chosen as World Haemophilia Day in honour of Frank Schnabel, founder of the World Federation of Hemophilia, who was born on that date in 1925. The WFH established the day in 1989 to raise awareness and build the global community of people affected by bleeding disorders. In 2022, an estimated gene therapy breakthrough brought new hope for a potential cure.
Where It's Observed
Cultural Context
US United States
The US has relatively good access to haemophilia treatment through specialised haemophilia treatment centres, but cost remains a significant barrier. Gene therapy trials are well-advanced in the US, and World Haemophilia Day highlights both the progress made and the insurance battles many patients face.
KR South Korea
South Korea provides treatment for haemophilia through the national health insurance system, but patients and advocacy groups use World Haemophilia Day to push for full coverage of newer therapies and better support for those with inhibitors — the most challenging complication of treatment.
JP Japan
Japan has a painful history with haemophilia: in the 1980s, thousands of patients were infected with HIV through contaminated blood products, leading to a landmark legal case. World Haemophilia Day in Japan carries the weight of that history alongside advocacy for current treatment access.
How to Participate
- 01Learn about the difference between haemophilia A and B and von Willebrand disease
- 02Donate blood or blood products — safe blood supplies are fundamental to treating bleeding disorders
- 03Support the World Federation of Hemophilia's humanitarian aid programmes
- 04Wear red to raise awareness of bleeding disorders on April 17
Frequently asked questions
When is World Haemophilia Day?+
World Haemophilia Day is observed annually on April 17. The date is fixed each year — April 17 — and does not shift based on the lunar calendar or weekday.
What is World Haemophilia Day?+
World Haemophilia Day on April 17 raises awareness of haemophilia and other inherited bleeding disorders. Haemophilia is a genetic condition in which the blood does not clot properly, leading to prolonged bleeding from even minor cuts or injuries and spontaneous bleeding into joints and muscles. It …
Is World Haemophilia Day a public holiday?+
World Haemophilia Day is an international observance or awareness day, not a public holiday in most countries. It does not typically result in days off work or school closures, though some countries and organisations hold official events.
How can I participate in World Haemophilia Day?+
Learn about the difference between haemophilia A and B and von Willebrand disease Donate blood or blood products — safe blood supplies are fundamental to treating bleeding disorders Support the World Federation of Hemophilia's humanitarian aid programmes These are some of the most accessible ways to engage with the day's purpose.
Which countries observe World Haemophilia Day?+
Global — World Federation of Hemophilia initiative.
Mark the date
Download a free printable calendar for 2027 and never miss World Haemophilia Day.
US United States
United Kingdom
Australia
Canada
KR South Korea
JP Japan