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Nigeria struggles with essential care for bleeding disorders as global medicine moves to gene therapy

Naija News • 2h ago
Nigeria struggles with essential care for bleeding disorders as global medicine moves to gene therapy
Title: Amidst Global Advances, Nigeria's Haemophilia Patients Remain in the Shadows In a small home in Kaduna, a young couple's third-born son was welcomed with a name that conveyed hope - Onwuzueike, meaning "death must cease." This name was not just a wish but a desperate prayer, as the family had already buried two sons before the age of ten, both victims of uncontrolled bleeding. For the third son, Victor Ugochukwu, a diagnosis would later reveal the cause - Haemophilia A, a condition that affects only a few individuals globally. Haemophilia A is a genetic disorder that occurs when the body lacks the "Factor 8" protein, necessary for blood clotting. This means even minor injuries can lead to prolonged bleeding, causing excruciating pain and confinement. Victor's story is not unique in Nigeria, where an estimated 11,000 to 20,000 people suffer from this condition, with over 90% still undiagnosed. In fact, the World Federation of Haemophilia reports that Haemophilia A affects about one in 5,000 to 10,000 male births worldwide. In rural areas, traditional medicine often prevails, but this can lead to further complications. In Enugu, a mother named Josephine recounts how her first son, Chidebere, was diagnosed with Haemophilia A after a circumcision bleed that wouldn't stop. The local midwife's efforts were eventually complemented by a doctor who administered factor-rich blood transfusions, but Josephine's journey was only beginning. With no support system or resources, she has had to navigate the challenges of caring for her sons, often relying on traditional bone-setters who lack the necessary expertise. As the world moves towards gene therapy and advanced treatments, Nigeria's Haemophilia patients remain largely in the shadows. The government's efforts to establish a national haemophilia register and provide access to treatment are commendable, but more needs to be done to address the shortage of skilled healthcare professionals and the lack of awareness about this condition. Until then, families like Victor's and Josephine's will continue to bear the brunt of a disease that has no cure, but with the right support and resources, can be managed. The story of Haemophilia A in Nigeria is one of resilience and hope, but also of neglect and abandonment. As the country moves forward, it's essential that we prioritize the needs of these
Source: Original Article. AI-enhanced version.