HIW IN PWH

Persons with Hemophilia (PWH) are at risk of HIV/AIDS, especially if they receive multiple transfusions or unsafe blood products. Before modern factor concentrates, transfusions of whole blood, FFP, or cryoprecipitate exposed many patients to HIV and hepatitis viruses.

Even today, high costs of factor concentrates in Pakistan may force some PWH to rely on unsafe blood products, increasing risk of infection.

Living with HIV and Hemophilia

• HIV and Hemophilia are lifelong conditions requiring regular care.

• Emotional, physical, and financial challenges are common.

• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle helps manage both conditions:

  • Avoid alcohol, smoking, and non-prescribed drugs

  • Eat balanced diet: fruits, vegetables, grains, cooked meat, fish, chicken

  • Exercise: walking, swimming, or gentle activities

  • Follow hygiene rules: personal items (blades, toothbrushes) not shared

  • Manage stress: meditation, hobbies, or relaxation exercises

HIV Mutations and Drug Resistance

• HIV mutates rapidly; some mutations can cause drug-resistant strains.

• Strict adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART/HAART) is critical:

  • Take every dose on time

  • Follow instructions about food and dosage

  • Never stop treatment abruptly

• Proper adherence prevents resistant HIV strains and treatment failure

Preventing HIV Transmission

Blood-to-Blood Contact:

• PWH must never share needles, syringes, razors, or toothbrushes

• HIV cannot pass through unbroken skin

Sexual Transmission:

• Use latex condoms, water-based lubricants, and spermicides (Nonoxynol-9)

• Avoid reusing condoms

• Safer sexual practices minimize risk to partners

Conception for HIV Discordant Couples

• Couples with one HIV+ partner can conceive safely with proper guidance:

  • Timed ovulatory intercourse (during ovulation, low viral load)

  • Artificial insemination with washed sperm

  • In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) for high-risk cases

• All procedures require fertility assessment, infection screening, and careful counseling.

Where to Get Help

DWO Special Needs Cell provides support for PWH infected with HIV or other blood-borne diseases.

• Free medical advice and treatment available for HIV+ Hemophilic patients

• Managed under guidance of Dr. Muhammad Ilyas and the DWO Medical Advisory Board

• Assistance includes treatment, counseling, and support for managing daily life