The impact of
haemophilia and its treatment on social status has not been well studied, although research into the quality of life of patients with
haemophilia has shed some light on aspects of social and role functioning. Studies conducted before the advent of safe and effective
coagulation factor replacement
therapy suggest that the
haemophilia population was predominantly of low socioeconomic status with many social disadvantages, including high rates of disability and unemployment and low rates of marriage. Since the availability of purified
factor VIII concentrates that could be used in a home-care setting and as prophylaxis, most research suggests that social status and well-being amongst children, adolescents, and adults with
haemophilia is not compromised, and is comparable to that of the general population. Children and adolescents with
haemophilia do not generally feel disadvantaged, although
haemophilia-related issues at school and amongst peer groups do arise. Recent studies in adults show higher than average rates of marriage and cohabitation and the attainment of a generally good educational status, but, as in the past, employment rates remain comparatively lower. Social status amongst the elderly with
haemophilia who may have developed severe disability as a result of their condition is poorly defined and has never been formally studied. Additional research is recommended.