Why Are Men More Likely to Develop Hemophilia? – News18
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Genetics explain why hemophilia is more common in men. Early awareness, diagnosis, and management are key to improving outcomes for those affected.
Males, having an XY chromosome pair, will develop hemophilia if their single X chromosome carries the mutated gene.
Hemophilia results from mutations in clotting factor genes located on the X chromosome. Males, having an XY chromosome pair, will develop hemophilia if their single X chromosome carries the mutated gene. Females have two X chromosomes (XX), so if one carries the mutation, the other can often compensate. Dr. Rahul Bhargava, Principal Director and Chief of BMT, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, explains all you need to know:
Why Men Are More Vulnerable
Unlike women, men do not have a second X chromosome to offset the defective gene. This means that if a male inherits an X chromosome with the hemophilia gene from his mother, he will inevitably have the disorder. Women would need mutations on both X chromosomes to develop hemophilia, which is much rarer.
How It Affects Males
Men with hemophilia lack functional clotting factors, leading to serious and prolonged bleeding. Symptoms may include:
Excessive Bleeding: Even minor injuries can cause severe bleeding that is difficult to stop.
Spontaneous Bleeding: Bleeding may occur without any visible injury, especially in muscles and joints.
Joint Damage: Frequent bleeding in joints can lead to swelling, pain, and long-term mobility issues.
Severe Complications: In extreme cases, uncontrolled bleeding may cause life-threatening issues such as brain hemorrhages.
Why Men Cannot Be Carriers
Women can carry the gene without showing symptoms because of their second, typically healthy X chromosome. Men, however, cannot be carriers—they either have hemophilia or they don’t.
Treatment and Management
There is currently no cure for hemophilia, but clotting factor replacement therapy can effectively manage the condition. Regular infusions of the missing clotting factor allow patients to lead relatively normal lives and avoid severe complications.
Genetics explain why hemophilia is more common in men. Early awareness, diagnosis, and management are key to improving outcomes for those affected.
