Von Willebrand Disease (VWD) is the most common inherited bleeding disorder, affecting both males and females. It is caused by a deficiency or dysfunction of von Willebrand factor (VWF), a protein involved in blood clotting. VWD is classified into three types based on the severity of symptoms and the levels of VWF in the blood.
The prevalence of VWD varies among different populations. Globally, it is estimated that VWD affects approximately 1% of the population. However, the prevalence can be higher in certain regions or ethnic groups. For instance, in the United States, VWD is estimated to affect around 1 in 1000 individuals. In Europe, the prevalence ranges from 0.6% to 1.3%.
It is important to note that VWD can be underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed due to its wide range of symptoms and the lack of awareness. Mild cases may go unnoticed or be attributed to other causes. Therefore, the actual prevalence of VWD might be higher than reported.
Von Willebrand Disease is a relatively common inherited bleeding disorder, affecting a significant portion of the population worldwide. Proper diagnosis, treatment, and management are crucial to ensure the well-being of individuals with VWD and to prevent complications associated with bleeding episodes.