hemophilia
UK: ˌhiːməˈfɪliə | US: ˌhiːməˈfɪliə
n. a hereditary disorder characterized by impaired blood clotting due to deficiencies in clotting factors, leading to prolonged bleeding.
hemophilia = hemo<blood> + phil<love> + ia<condition>
- hemo (from Greek haima, meaning "blood")
- phil (from Greek philos, meaning "love" or "affinity")
- ia (Greek suffix denoting a medical condition)
Etymology Origin:
The term hemophilia was coined in the 19th century from Greek roots to describe a medical condition where the blood has an abnormal "affinity" for bleeding (due to poor clotting). The word reflects the historical observation that sufferers "love to bleed" (metaphorically), as their blood fails to clot normally.
Hemophilia is often treated with regular infusions of clotting factors.
People with hemophilia must avoid activities that could cause injuries.
The royal families of Europe were historically affected by hemophilia.
Advances in gene therapy offer hope for curing hemophilia.
Early diagnosis of hemophilia can significantly improve quality of life.