World Haemophilia Day is celebrated every year on April 17. The day is observed annually on April 17 as a global healthcare initiative to create awareness on bleeding disorders. It aims to promote better control and prevention of haemophilia, through collaboration with local policymakers, as well as to ensure improved treatment and care for those affected. Background Since 1989, World Hemophilia Day has been celebrated on April 17 to raise the awareness and understanding of hemophilia and other bleeding disorders. The date was chosen in honour of World Federation of Haemophilia (WFH) founder Frank Schnabel, who was born on that day. Haemophilia Haemophilia is a bleeding disorder. In people with bleeding disorders, the blood clotting process doesn’t work properly. As a result, people with bleeding disorders can bleed for longer than normal. Haemophilia can be inherited or acquired. Symptoms of a bleeding disorder include: Bleeding into joints, muscles and soft tissues Excessive bruising Prolonged, heavy menstrual periods (menorrhagia) Unexplained nosebleeds Extended bleeding after minor cuts, blood draws or vaccinations, minor surgery or dental procedures Theme for 2026 The theme for World Haemophilia Day 2026 is, ‘Diagnosis: First step to care’. This year’s theme of “Diagnosis: First step to care” highlights the critical importance of diagnosis—the essential first step in treatment and care. The World Federation of Hemophilia estimates that over three-quarters of the population of people with hemophilia worldwide are undiagnosed, and an even more significant gap also exists for other bleeding disorders. This means that hundreds of thousands of people with bleeding disorders around the world still lack access to basic care. We have the power—and the shared commitment—to change this. We can improve diagnostic outcomes by strengthening the skills of healthcare professionals and enhancing the effectiveness of laboratories. By increasing global diagnosis rates, we can move one step closer to our shared vision of Treatment for All. Source : World Federation of Hemophilia