Shattering Myths Surrounding Hemophilia: What the Public Must Understand

 Hemophilia is a disease that's still very much under a cloud of misconception, despite the fact that thousands of adults and children suffer from it. Because awareness levels are low, most families experience social stigma, delayed diagnosis, and substandard care. At Fatimid Foundation, where we deliver free and life-saving care to hemophilia patients, we think the time has come to cut through myth and tell it like it is.

Let's shatter the most prevalent myths surrounding hemophilia and fill them with the facts that all Pakistanis should be aware of.

Myth #1: Hemophilia is infectious

Fact: Hemophilia is not infectious. It is a genetic disorder, inherited by children from their parents through genes. You cannot "catch" hemophilia by being in close contact with, touching, or having meals with a person who has it.

In spite of this, there are still some patients who are isolated or discriminated against in schools and workplaces. Education is the best way to stop this unnecessary fear.

Myth #2: Only boys get hemophilia

Fact: Although hemophilia primarily happens in males, women may also be carriers and might have slight symptoms.

In hemophilia, the defective gene is normally transmitted along the X chromosome. As boys have only one X chromosome, they are likely to develop complete symptoms. Girls who inherit the gene, however, may also have abnormal bleeding due to operations or menstruation. Not treating female carriers will cause problems in childbirth or surgery.

Myth #3: People with hemophilia bleed more from minor cuts

Fact: Individuals with hemophilia don't necessarily bleed more from cuts-they just bleed longer, particularly from injuries that can't be seen inside the body.

The greatest risk is bleeding within joints and muscles that can cause excruciating pain, disability, and potentially life-threatening conditions if not diagnosed early enough. This is why early treatment and diagnosis are essential.

Myth #4: Hemophilia is caused by poor hygiene or nutrition

Fact: Hemophilia is an inherited disorder. It is unrelated to diet, hygiene, or lifestyle. Hemophilia can be inherited by a child even without a family history, as a result of a spontaneous genetic mutation.

This myth triggers blame and shame, particularly for mothers. Fatimid Foundation rejects such stigma and promotes empathy and awareness instead.

Myth #5: There is no treatment for hemophilia

Fact: Although a permanent solution for hemophilia is not available yet, it could be managed quite effectively through proper treatment and care.

We at Fatimid Foundation offer patients clotting factor concentrates, regular follow-ups, and medical advice. With their help, hemophilia children are able to go to school, play, and live relatively normal lives. Early diagnosis and regular treatment are the keys.

Myth #6: Hemophilia patients must abstain from every kind of physical exercise

Fact: Exercise is crucial for hemophilia patients, but it has to be done safely.

Swimming, walking, and stretching are actually activities that can strengthen muscles and guard joints. Children and adults with hemophilia can lead active lifestyles with the right medical advice. Contact sports such as football or wrestling, however, must be avoided because of the possibility of injury and internal bleeding.

What Is the Fatimid Foundation Doing for Hemophilia?

As one of Pakistan's most prominent non-profit blood disorder organizations, Fatimid Foundation is a lifeline for patients and families with hemophilia. We offer:

• Free clotting factor treatment

• Medical consultations and emergency services

• Community and school awareness programs

• Family counseling to deal with the diagnosis

Most importantly, we treat each patient with dignity and compassion, enabling them to live with confidence, not fear.

What You Can Do to Help?

Educate yourself and others

Share the facts. Stop the spread of misinformation that stigmatizes and postpones treatment.

Support a patient

Your gifts enable Fatimid to offer free life-saving care to patients who can't pay for it.

Encourage early testing

If you have a child with unexplained bruising, nosebleeds, or swollen joints, urge the parents to be tested.

Break the silence

Speak out about hemophilia. The more we talk about it, the more we make it routine and stand by people who have it.

Every Voice Counts

Misconceptions about hemophilia can do real harm, from postponed treatment to social isolation. But every individual who hears the truth becomes part of the solution.

We at the Fatimid Foundation are convinced that knowledge can cure. Let us all come together and replace myths with facts, stigma with support, and fear with hope.