A team lead by Professor Frits Rosendaal from Leiden University in the Netherlands undertook a study in which the mothers of known persons with haemophilia were reviewed for causes of mortality. This was standardised against the general Dutch female population and adjusted for age and calendar period via the standardised mortality ratio.

Protection Afforded

The team found that being a carrer of haemophilia gave a 36 percent reduction in mortality due to ischaemic heart disease. Overall there was a 22 percent reduction in mortality.

Importance

The study reinforces the importance of clotting in ischaemic heart disease and its further treatment. It is interesting to note this positive side to the devestating disease of haemophilia which may help to explain the continued presence of this genetic abnormality throughout history.

References

Rosendall, Kriek & Sramek. Decreased mortaity of ischaemic heart disease among carriers of haemophilia. Lancet. 2003; 362: 351-54

BBC News. 'Hidden haemophilia' cuts heart risk. Online: http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-2/hi/health/3114385.stm 2003-08-02