Von Willebrand Disease

Like hemophilia, von Willebrand disease is a genetic coagulation disorder. Symptoms may include easy bruising, frequent and prolonged nose bleeds, bleeding after dental procedures and surgeries, and for women, heavy menstrual periods. There are several different types of von Willebrand disease. Some types are due to a deficiency of von Willebrand factor in the blood, and some are due to a qualitative problem in the nature of the von Willebrand factor. VWD affects males and females in equal numbers. Diagnosis of VWD can be complicated and is best done at a specialized hemophilia treatment center.

Together with the National Hemophilia Foundation, NEHA has initiated Project Red Flag, a campaign to raise awareness among health care providers and the general public about women, girls and VWD.

For more information, click here (link to NHF/About Bleeding Disorders/von Willebrand diseaseat specialized Hemophilia Treatment Centers located throughout New England.