Clinico-Demographic Profile and Management Scenario of Hemophilia Patients in a Tertiary Care Centre of North Bengal – A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Haemophilia is the most common inherited severe bleeding disorder, with limited data available from resource-constrained regions of North Bengal. The establishment of the Hemoglobinopathies and Hemophilia Control Unit (HHCU) has enabled structured diagnosis and management in this sub-Himalayan region.

Objectives: To evaluate the clinico-demographic profile, severity distribution, clinical manifestations, and management practices of haemophilia patients attending a tertiary care centre in North Bengal.

Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Jalpaiguri Government Medical College and Hospital from 2022 to 2025. All diagnosed haemophilia patients attending the HHCU during the study period were included. Clinical details, family history, PT/INR, aPTT, factor assays, and treatment data were analysed.

Results: A total of 66 patients were enrolled, of whom 61 (92.5%) had haemophilia A and 5 (7.5%) had haemophilia B. The majority belonged to the 11–25-year age group (68.2%). Severe disease was observed in 34 (55.7%) patients, moderate in 23 (37.7%), and mild in 4 (6.6%). Hemarthrosis was the most common presentation (50%), followed by gum bleeding (24.2%), epistaxis (13.6%), and joint deformities (12.2%). The knee joint was most frequently affected (45%). Prolonged aPTT was noted in most cases, whereas PT/INR remained normal. Recombinant factor concentrates were administered on-demand in 58 patients, and prophylactic therapy was initiated in five children without established joint deformities. All patients received government-issued unique identification cards.

Conclusions: Haemophilia A with severe factor deficiency constituted the predominant disease pattern in this cohort. The HHCU has significantly improved diagnostic access, factor replacement therapy, prophylactic care, rehabilitation support, and patient awareness in North Bengal. Despite recent advances, substantial unmet needs remain in specialized diagnostic facilities and long-term comprehensive care for the rural population of this region