Understanding the Burden of Haemophilia

While prophylactic factor replacement and non-factor therapies have transformed the management of bleeding disorders, significant haemophilia treatment unmet needs remain a reality for many patients. Recent data from the Global Adelphi Disease Specific Programme Database highlight that clinical outcomes in real-world settings often fall short of optimal benchmarks. Consequently, many individuals living with haemophilia (PwH) continue to face physical and humanistic challenges that impact their daily lives.

Key Findings from the Global Adelphi Database

The cross-sectional survey involved 283 physicians and over 2,200 patients across multiple countries between 2023 and 2024. Interestingly, while 94% of patients demonstrated high compliance with their prescribed prophylaxis, clinical stability remained elusive for more than half of the cohort. Specifically, 57% of patients reported at least one bleeding episode annually. Furthermore, joint problems affected nearly 49% of the population, indicating that current regimens may not sufficiently protect musculoskeletal health.

Physician and Patient Perspectives on Care

Physicians expressed notable dissatisfaction with current prophylactic options for 56% of patients with haemophilia A and 59% of those with haemophilia B. Their primary concerns centered on administration methods, dosing schedules, and overall efficacy. Additionally, patients on all types of prophylaxis reported impairments in their health-related quality of life (HRQoL). These findings suggest that haemophilia treatment unmet needs extend beyond simple bleed counts to include lifestyle priorities and physical independence.

The Path Forward: Patient-Centred Management

The study concludes that current treatment paradigms frequently fail to align with the lifestyle requirements of patients. Many individuals still experience limitations in productivity and daily activities. Therefore, a more patient-centred approach is essential to balance clinical effectiveness with personal goals. Clinicians should prioritize regular joint health assessments and discuss evolving therapy options to better address the persistent burden of the disease.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the primary haemophilia treatment unmet needs identified in the study?

The most significant unmet needs include persistent joint problems, breakthrough bleeding episodes despite high compliance, and overall dissatisfaction with current dosing schedules and administration methods.

How does haemophilia affect the quality of life for patients on prophylaxis?

Despite being on prophylaxis, many patients report limitations in physical independence, reduced productivity at work or school, and ongoing chronic pain related to joint damage.

Why are physicians dissatisfied with current haemophilia therapies?

Physicians often cite concerns regarding the complexity of dosing schedules, the burden of administration, and the inadequate prevention of long-term joint complications as reasons for dissatisfaction.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.

References

1. Yuste VJ et al. Real-World Unmet Treatment Needs for Patients With Haemophilia: Results From the Global Adelphi Disease Specific Programme Database. Haemophilia. 2026 May 21. doi: 10.1111/hae.70313. PMID: 42165217.


2. Malec L et al. Unmet Needs, Factor Consumption, and Healthcare Resource Use Among People with Hemophilia A: Real-World Analysis of the Adelphi Hemophilia Disease Specific Programme. Blood. 2024;144(Supplement 1):3973.


3. Wheeler A et al. Real-world unmet needs of patients with haemophilia A and haemophilia B with or without inhibitors: End-of-study results from the explorer6 non-interventional study. Haemophilia. 2025 Sep;31(5):903-911. doi: 10.1111/hae.70051.