News Release
For Immediate Release
May 7, 2010
Contact: Aaron Zappia
(215) 657-7700

Senator Greenleaf Recognized for Support of Hemophilia Legislation

On May 6th, members of the Delaware Valley Chapter of the National Hemophilia Foundation presented Senator Greenleaf with an award at his district office in Willow Grove for his support of HB 620, The Hemophilia Standards of Care Act.  The Pennsylvania Senate also adopted a resolution sponsored by Greenleaf designating April as Hemophilia Awareness Month in Pennsylvania.

Hemophilia is a genetic disorder that impairs the body's ability to control bleeding.  A low clotting factor in the blood leads to excessive, uncontrollable bleeding even when there is no injury and most often occurs in the joints and head.

There are approximately 20,000 citizens in the United States with Hemophilia and each year approximately 400 babies are born with the disorder.  There are approximately 1,700 Pennsylvania citizens living with Hemophilia.  Hemophilia affects males almost exclusively, one in 7,000, and is found in all populations.  Although there is no cure, the lifelong condition can be controlled with medication and therapy. 

"I look forward to the final passage of HB 620 to preserve access to the medication and services for Hemophilia patients," said Senator Greenleaf.  "Also, I believe that we must work to raise awareness about Hemophilia to ensure that the disorder is understood by the general public and the needs of patients are considered."