Haemophilia

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Haemophilia

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

noun

Pronunciation

hee-muh-FIL-ee-uh  /ˌhiːməˈfɪlɪə/

Definition

An inherited genetic disorder in which the blood does not clot normally, due to a deficiency or absence of one of the clotting factors; a condition characterised by prolonged bleeding from even minor injuries.

Plain meaning

Haemophilia is a genetic condition where the blood cannot clot properly, meaning that even small cuts or bruises can cause serious bleeding that is very difficult to stop. It is inherited and mainly affects males.

Register

Medical and technical. Haemophilia is a precise medical term used in clinical, scientific, and educational contexts. It is widely known by the public through its historical association with royal families and its prominence in medical ethics debates concerning the blood products scandal of the 1980s.