April 17, 2024 in the World

Logo of the World Hemophilia Day
Copyright: World Federation of Hemophilia
World Hemophilia Day is an international observance held on April 17, 2024 by the World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH). It is an awareness day for hemophilia and other bleeding disorders, which also serves to raise funds and attract volunteers for the WFH. It was started in 1989 and is held annually; April 17 was chosen in honor of Frank Schnabel's birthday. Frank Schnabel established the WFH in 1963.

Haemophilia is a group of hereditary genetic disorders that impair the body's ability to control blood clotting or coagulation, which is used to stop bleeding when a blood vessel is broken. Haemophilia A is the most common form of the disorder, present in about 1 in 5,000 – 10,000 male births. Haemophilia B occurs in around 1 in about 20,000 – 34,000 male births.

The WFH is an international non-profit organization dedicated to improve the lives of people with hemophilia and other genetic bleeding disorders. It educates hemophiliacs and lobbies for improved medical treatment. 75 percent of people in the world with bleeding disorders do not receive adequate treatment. The WFH has member organizations in 113 countries and official recognition from the World Health Organization