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World Hemophilia Day

On World Hemophilia Day, let's spread awareness and support for those living with this condition. Together, we can make a difference!

Saturday

April 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEApril 17

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYRare Diseases

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to raise awareness and show support for those living with hemophilia on World Hemophilia Day, celebrated every year on April 17! This day was first established in 1989 by the World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH) to honor the birthday of WFH founder Frank Schnabel and to bring attention to this rare genetic disorder. With over 400,000 people worldwide affected by hemophilia, it's important to spread knowledge and understanding about this condition. Let's make April 17 a day of education, advocacy, and positivity for the hemophilia community!

TIMELINE

World Hemophilia Day Timeline

Hemophilia Identified

Hemophilia is recognized as a hereditary disorder by several doctors around the globe during the 1800s.

First Hemophilia Treatment

Dr. Patek and Dr. Taylor of Harvard University discover antihemophilic globulin which becomes the basis for treatment in Hemophilia.

WFH's Foundation

The World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH) was established by Frank Schnabel to improve care and treatment globally.

First World Hemophilia Day

World Hemophilia Day was first established by the WFH to honour its founder, and raise awareness about hemophilia.

Clotting Factor VIII's Gene Cloned

Scientists successfully cloned the Factor VIII gene, paving the way for safer and more effective treatments.

Gene Therapy Breakthroughs

Progress in gene therapy provides hope for a lifelong cure, with successful trials conducted on patients.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate World Hemophilia Day

Host a fundraising event

Gather your community and organize a fundraising event to raise awareness and funds for hemophilia research and treatment.

Share educational resources

Spread knowledge about hemophilia by sharing educational resources, such as articles, videos, and infographics, on social media or with your friends and family.

PARTICIPATE

Participate in a blood drive

One way to support those with hemophilia is to donate blood. Organize or participate in a blood drive on World Hemophilia Day to help those in need of blood transfusions.

CREATE

Create a support group

Connect with others who have hemophilia by creating a support group in your community. This can be a great way to provide emotional support and share experiences and resources.

WEAR

Wear red

Show your support for those with hemophilia by wearing red on World Hemophilia Day. This simple act can help raise awareness and start conversations about the condition.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why World Hemophilia Day is Important

Support individuals and families affected by hemophilia

The day also recognizes the challenges faced by those living with hemophilia and their families. It calls for support and solidarity from communities, governments, and organizations to provide resources, education, and services that improve the quality of life for those affected by the condition.

Increase awareness and understanding

World Hemophilia Day is a crucial reminder to educate people about the bleeding disorder. By raising awareness, we can help dispel myths and reduce stigma surrounding hemophilia, ultimately leading to better understanding and support for those affected by it.

Advocate for equal access to treatment

World Hemophilia Day highlights the need for equal access to safe and effective treatment for all individuals living with the bleeding disorder. It also serves as a platform to advocate for improved healthcare policies and funding for research towards finding a cure.

Related holidays

Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month

An awareness observance in March promoting education and early diagnosis of inherited blood and bleeding disorders such as hemophilia and von Willebrand disease.

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Jun 2026