PB0447 - Promoting Health Equity: The Redheart Project's Survey-Based Screening Program for Bleeding Disorders in Nigerian Women

Background: Bleeding disorders can have a significant impact on the health and quality of life of affected individuals, especially women. However, bleeding disorders are often underdiagnosed and undertreated in low- and middle-income countries, such as Nigeria, where there is a lack of awareness, resources, and specialized care. To address this gap, the Haemophilia Foundation of Nigeria, through its Redheart Program, has launched a survey-based screening program for bleeding risk in Nigerian women.

Aims: To promote health equity by enhancing awareness, facilitating early detection, and ensuring appropriate management of bleeding disorders among Nigerian women

Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted, involving 2565 women from all six
geopolitical zones in Nigeria. The screening tool questionnaire for women with menorrhagia was used. The survey can be conducted in various settings, such as healthcare facilities, community centers, or online platforms, depending on the feasibility and accessibility of the target population. Data was analyzed using appropriate statistical methods

Results: The majority of the participants (36.8%) aged 26-39 years. In terms of occupation, both public servants and students accounted for 21.5% of the sample. Regarding menstrual health, 16.3% experienced periods lasting over 7 days, 16.5% had to change pads every 2 hours due to heavy bleeding, and 16.8% received treatment for anemia symptoms. Less than 5% reported bleeding events related to dental health or past surgeries. Among women who had been pregnant or experienced miscarriage (64.8% of the total), 13.9% had encountered bleeding complications

Conclusion(s): The survey underscores the vulnerability of Nigerian women to symptomatic Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (HMB) and postpartum bleeding. It strongly advocates for the integration of routine screening tests for bleeding disorders into all levels of the healthcare system. This proactive strategy is vital for early detection, timely intervention, and fostering health equity among women in Nigeria.