Gandhinagar: The Gujarat government has transformed haemophilia treatment by providing free factor injections at civil hospitals, ensuring patients receive essential care to prevent life-threatening bleeding episodes.

Haemophilia, a hereditary blood disorder that impairs blood clotting, affects millions globally. While there is no permanent cure, timely treatment is vital to manage the condition effectively.

According to an ANI report, over 3,000 haemophilia patients in Gujarat now benefit from free injections under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. This initiative was first introduced in 2012 by then-Chief Minister Narendra Modi, marking a pivotal step in improving patient health and enabling them to lead active lives.

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Understanding Haemophilia

Haemophilia affects approximately 1 in 10,000 people worldwide. It results from deficiencies in clotting factors, particularly factors 8 or 9, among the 13 present in human blood. The condition is categorized into three types—A, B, and C—and further classified by severity: severe, moderate, and mild.

Improved Accessibility to Treatment

Before 2012, accessing treatment for haemophilia was a significant challenge. However, with the Gujarat government’s decision to provide free factor injections in civil hospitals, patients' quality of life has improved significantly. Each injection costs between ?25,000 and ?30,000, an expense fully covered by the government.

In the last two years, over 11,800 injections have been distributed free of cost, benefiting patients across the state. Currently, Gujarat has over 3,000 haemophilia patients, including more than 500 residing in Surat.

Surat: A Hub for Haemophilia Care

The Haemophilia Society Surat Chapter, established in 2003, has worked relentlessly to raise awareness and improve care for haemophilia patients. In 2015, in collaboration with New Civil Hospital Surat, the society launched the Haemophilia Care Center, the only dedicated haemophilia facility in Gujarat and the first 24/7 operational care center in India.

Equipped with specialized medical rooms, a physiotherapy unit, and a dedicated ward, the center offers free care, blood tests, and treatment. It has also conducted programs across Gujarat, providing free blood tests to those in need.

The center’s high-quality care attracts patients not only from India but also from countries like Zambia and Dubai. Manager Nihal Bhatwala highlighted that 94 patients currently receive prophylactic treatment, significantly reducing the risk of bleeding and preventing disabilities.

A Decade of Progress and Hope

President of the Haemophilia Society Surat Chapter, Nilesh Jariwala, acknowledged the transformative impact of introducing clotting factor injections. "A decade ago, haemophilia treatment was nearly nonexistent. Today, patients require just one injection a month, enabling them to overcome challenges and lead successful lives. Many have excelled as doctors, lawyers, and engineers, proving that success is attainable even with a rare disease," he stated.

With unwavering support from the Gujarat government and organizations like the Haemophilia Society Surat, the state has set an inspiring example of compassion and innovation in healthcare.