Statement: HFA and NBDF Address WHO Recommendations
Hemophilia Federation of America (HFA) and the National Bleeding Disorders Foundation (NBDF) are deeply concerned by the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommendation of cryoprecipitate (pathogen-reduced and non-pathogen-reduced) in the 23rd Essential Medicines List (EML) for treatment for hemophilia.
With FVIII concentrates available globally, the inclusion of cryoprecipitate as treatment for hemophilia is an egregious, misguided recommendation that does not account for the inadequate safety of cryoprecipitate relating to the transmission of blood borne illnesses, such as HIV and HCV. We call on the World Health Organization to include FVIII concentrates on the EML, outside of the complementary list.
This is the first step in what we expect to be continuing communications between our groups and the World Health Organization, ensuring that global treatment for bleeding disorders is both safe and effective.
This is an ongoing discussion and HFA and NBDF will keep the bleeding disorders community informed as information is gathered.
Please note that HFA and NBDF do not recommend, endorse or make any representation about the efficacy, appropriateness or suitability of any specific products, treatments, or opinions. Please consult your physician before use of any treatments.
Source: Hemophilia Federation of America, January 2024