The Delhi High Court directed the Centre and state government to submit reports on the availability of injections for treating a rare genetic blood disorder. It also sought updates on the supply chain systems for all hospitals under their jurisdiction. The court emphasized the need for uninterrupted treatment and scheduled the next hearing for December 12.
New Delhi: The Delhi High Court instructed both the Centre and the Delhi government to submit reports regarding the availability of Antihemophilic Factor (AHF) injections, which are used to treat individuals with a rare genetic blood disorder.
The court also requested updates on the existing supply chain systems for all hospitals under their jurisdiction and scheduled the next hearing for December 12.
Justice Sanjeev Narula stated in an order issued on November 28,
“The respondents are directed to file status reports concerning the stock of the AHF injections and the existing supply chain system for all the hospitals under their administration. This should be completed within ten days.”
This directive was part of a hearing on a petition filed by individuals suffering from hemophilia, a rare genetic condition. The petitioners highlighted that while treatment for hemophilia is available in government hospitals, there are often insufficient stocks of AHF injections, which puts their lives at risk.
The plea called for the Centre and the Delhi government to actively monitor the supply chain management of AHF injections to prevent any disruptions in supply and to create contingency plans for critical shortages of this essential medication.
Hemophilia is a rare genetic disorder that impairs the blood’s ability to clot properly. It is caused by a deficiency or absence of clotting factors, which are proteins in the blood responsible for stopping bleeding. The condition typically results in prolonged bleeding, either internally or externally, even from minor injuries.
Types of Hemophilia:
- Hemophilia A: Caused by a deficiency of clotting factor VIII; the most common type.
- Hemophilia B: Caused by a deficiency of clotting factor IX.
- Hemophilia C: A rarer form caused by a deficiency of clotting factor XI.
Treatment:
- Replacement Therapy: Infusions of the missing clotting factors (Factor VIII or IX).
- Preventive Treatment: Prophylactic infusions to prevent spontaneous bleeding.
- Desmopressin (for mild Hemophilia A): A medication to stimulate the release of clotting factors.
Advancements in gene therapy and modern treatments are improving the quality of life for individuals with hemophilia.