World Federation of Haemophilia Programs in Developing Countries

Abstract

The World Federation of Haemophilia (WFH) is a global not-for-profit organization devoted to furthering the treatment of hemophilia and related disorders. Founded in Montreal in 1963, it has grown tremendously during the last 40 years and now has 107 National Member Organizations and has been recognized by the World Health Organization. The mission of the WFH is to introduce, improve, and maintain care for patients with hemophilia and related disorders. Several specific programs may be used as tools to achieve these goals. The WFH organizes regular educational workshops on key aspects of hemophilia care. Fellowships are offered to approximately 30 healthcare professionals each year that provide funding for a period of study of up to 8 weeks at an International Hemophilia Training Center of their choice. The WFH twinning program helps emerging hemophilia treatment centers develop partnerships with well-established centers. Although the ultimate goal of the WFH is to promote sustainable hemophilia treatment in developing countries, donations of concentrate are regularly made through the Humanitarian Aid program. The WHF launched the Global Alliance for Progress in its 40th anniversary year, establishing a partnership between the WFH and other stakeholders, including the pharmaceutical industry. The aim is to focus on 30 to 40 developing countries during the next 10 years, aiming to more than double the number of patients diagnosed with hemophilia in those countries. The WFH is also involved in fostering discussion on key issues such as safety and supply of blood products.