Like hemophilia, von Willebrand disease is a genetic coagulation disorder.

Symptoms may include:

• easy bruising
• frequent and prolonged nosebleeds
• bleeding after dental procedures and surgeries
• heavy menstrual periods for women.

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 is supporting “Victory for Women”, a campaign to raise awareness among healthcare providers and the general public about women, girls, and VWD.