Pain, depression, and anxiety medications are used more frequently by hemophilia patients than by the general population, according to an 11-year study across Nordic countries. However, the use of these medications in people with hemophilia was not found to be associated with their use of factor replacement therapies.

I have fond memories of my dad sitting at the kitchen table on Sunday mornings. After attending church, he read the newspaper while the radio played his favorite Tejano music. He always read articles to my mom as they sat together, enjoying the morning. The crisp newspaper would buckle as…

As a person with von Willebrand disease (VWD) and hemophilia, bruises have been a near-constant presence in my life. VWD and hemophilia are bleeding disorders that affect the body’s ability to form blood clots and stop bleeding. Both can cause spontaneous and excessive bleeding, including bruising, heavy…

The European Commission has approved Hemlibra (emicizumab) as a routine preventive treatment for people with moderate hemophilia A without inhibitors. “We welcome the European Commission’s decision to approve Hemlibra also for people with moderate hemophilia A in the EU,” said Levi Garraway, MD, PhD, Roche’s chief medical officer…

High levels of antibodies against clotting factor VIII (FVIII) were associated with a slower response to immunosuppressive treatments in a small group of people with acquired hemophilia A in new study in China. Of 34 patients, 29 achieved a complete response to their first-line immunosuppressive therapy. Still, a lower…

I’ve learned to expect the unexpected when dealing with my bleeding disorders. A few days ago, I took a bike ride with my twin nephews who were visiting from Wisconsin. My small city of Punta Gorda, Florida, has a great bike loaner program. Bicycles, tricycles, and handcycles are available…

Tattoos and piercings are artistically and sociologically significant in cultures across the globe. Throughout history, people have held varying opinions about each. But now that we’re a more global community, these skin-deep forms of self-expression have largely become mainstream. I have a couple tattoos, as well as numerous piercings in…

In September, I decided to revamp my pathetic and inconsistent fitness routine. In a moment of desperation, I ordered a Peloton bike. I needed to lose weight and was out of shape. Not a good feeling. With my bleeding disorders, walking causes my foot and knee to swell. I…

As a pastor, one of my favorite things to do is to mentor men and women who respond to a call to ordained ministry. I enjoy theological conversations that spark great debates and critical analysis. Mentees and I form a collegial bond that lasts many years. First, I help them…