Hemophilia Patients Face Hidden Health Risks in Karachi

News Desk

Karachi: A health screening initiative for people living with hemophilia in Karachi has highlighted serious concerns over the risk of blood-borne infections among patients suffering from the inherited bleeding disorder.

A two-day screening camp organised by the Hemophilia Welfare Society Karachi (HWSK) found a high number of hepatitis C cases among screened patients, with health officials also detecting cases of hepatitis B and HIV.

According to HWSK, rapid tests were conducted on 242 registered hemophilia patients during the camp under the supervision of experts from Sindh’s blood transfusion, hepatitis, and HIV programmes. The screening identified 91 patients positive for hepatitis C, one for hepatitis B, and four for HIV.

HWSK founder and CEO Raheel Ahmed, who himself lives with hemophilia, said the organisation has registered around 900 patients and plans to continue screening until all members are tested.

He said the majority of positive cases identified during the drive were among patients above the age of 15, adding that the results currently represent only those who participated in the two-day screening activity.

Hemophilia patients require regular treatment to control bleeding episodes. However, due to limited availability of anti-haemophilia injections in Pakistan, many patients have historically relied on plasma-based treatments, which carry risks of transmitting infections if not properly screened and managed.

Ahmed stressed the need for greater government support, requesting the Sindh government to ensure the availability of anti-haemophilia medicines at HWSK’s treatment centre and continue cooperation in improving healthcare facilities for patients.

Medical experts participating in the camp said regular screening and vaccination are essential for protecting hemophilia patients from preventable diseases. Dr Durre Naz said such patients require special attention due to their lifelong medical needs.

Dr Saima Mushtaq also appreciated the initiative and assured continued cooperation with the society, while Additional Director CDC Sindh Health Department Dr Ershad Hussain Kazmi issued instructions to support healthcare efforts for hemophilia patients.

Health experts said the screening drive has highlighted the importance of regular monitoring, safe treatment practices, and improved access to modern hemophilia care to protect vulnerable patients from additional health complications.