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Haemophilia in Zimbabwe.
J M Mukiibi1, B Paul, S P Field
1Department of Haematology, Godfrey Huggins School of Medicine, University of Zimbabwe, Harare.
Tropical and Geographical Medicine
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Haemophilia A and Christmas disease are common in Zimbabwe, affecting 90% and 10% of diagnosed cases, respectively. Improved healthcare access may lead to more diagnoses of this under-recognized bleeding disorder.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Haemophilia diagnosis and management in African settings present unique challenges.
- Previous literature suggested haemophilia was uncommon in Zimbabwe.
- Socio-economic factors and healthcare infrastructure influence diagnosis rates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and characteristics of haemophilia in Zimbabwe.
- To identify challenges in diagnosing and managing haemophilia in an African context.
- To provide evidence contradicting earlier assumptions about haemophilia's rarity in Zimbabwe.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 120 haemophiliac cases diagnosed over 8 years in Zimbabwe.
- Comparison of clinical and laboratory parameters with international data.
- Discussion of diagnostic and management constraints, including home therapy and HIV sero-positivity.
Main Results:
- Haemophilia A accounted for 90% of cases, and Christmas disease for 10% (9:1 ratio).
- Clinical and laboratory findings were similar to those in other global populations.
- Sub-haemophiliac cases are likely underdiagnosed, especially in resource-limited settings.
Conclusions:
- Haemophilia is more common in Zimbabwe than previously reported.
- Improved socio-economic status and decentralized healthcare are expected to increase diagnoses.
- Addressing diagnostic challenges and considering implications of HIV are crucial for patient care.