Novo Nordisk, a leading global healthcare company, Nanyang, a renowned Thai footwear manufacturer, and the Thai Haemophilia Patient Club, announced the pioneering "EquiStep" collaboration. This joint effort aims to raise awareness about haemophilia, advocate for access to care, and promote inclusivity for individuals living with this rare bleeding disorder in Thailand.
Haemophilia is considered a rare disease, whereby the World Federation of Haemophilia has estimated the number of cases worldwide at approximately 320,000. It is estimated that Thailand has 5,750 cases of haemophilia, but in reality only 2,138 or a mere 37% of all patients are officially registered in the Thailand Haemophilia Registry. The remaining 62% of patients with mild to moderate symptoms have not been registered. In other words, the majority of patients are not able to access adequate care and efficient treatments.
Prof. Pantep Angchaisuksiri, M.D., Professor of Medicine at Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University and President of the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH), highlighted the multifaceted challenges faced by haemophilia patients: "Haemophilia, or the bleeding disorder, is a genetic condition that causes deficiency in blood clotting factors. It is passed down through an abnormal gene, with mothers being carriers who can pass it on to their children. The disorder is more common in boys than girls," Prof. Pantep explained. "Frequent symptoms include joint bleeds leading to pain, and mobility issues. Muscle bleeds result in bruising. Patients can have prolonged bleeding from injuries, unexplained nosebleeds and blood in urine. Severe cases risk life-threatening internal bleeding. Early diagnosis and prophylactic clotting factor treatment are crucial to manage this lifelong genetic condition and prevent complications like chronic joint damage."
“As the ISTH President, The International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) is at the forefront of addressing global healthcare disparities, especially in haemophilia care. Our commitment to research excellence and innovation drives the development of clinical guidelines that inform payer decisions and elevate equitable care. Through international collaboration, we're not just sharing knowledge—we're shaping a future where every person with haemophilia has access to the treatment they need to lead fulfilling lives," Prof. Pantep explained.
As part of the "EquiStep" project, Nanyang will produce 1,500 pairs of shoes featuring a special design by renowned artist Kru Parn - Somnuek Klangnok or Parnarts, incorporating the “Cocoon" character. "As a 100% genuine Thai rubber footwear brand that has been alongside Thai people for over 70 years, manufacturing more than 300 million pairs of shoes and receiving quality certification from the Thai Industrial Standards Institute, Nanyang takes pride in being recognised as a 'Premium Thai Product' by the government," said Chakrapol Chandavimol, Ph.D., Managing Director of Nanyang Marketing Co., Ltd. "We are proud to contribute our expertise to this meaningful cause. Our contribution underscores our commitment to fostering inclusive access to essential resources for all, as the symbolic nature of Nanyang’s contribution has long represented equality."
"This multi-stakeholder partnership represents a significant stride towards ensuring equitable access to essential resources and comprehensive care for the haemophilia community in Thailand," said Ekawat Suwantaroj, Vice President of the Thai Haemophilia Patient Club and a person with severe haemophilia A. He expressed sincere gratitude to the government for their efforts in addressing the healthcare needs of haemophilia patients. He also shared that the Thai Haemophilia Patient Club has been established for more than 20 years and currently has over 700 members nationwide. It has 5 regional chapters across the country, coordinating with the National Haemophilia Foundation of Thailand to facilitate their activities.
Prof. Darintr Sosothikul, M.D., Professor of Paediatric and Chief of the Haematology and Oncology at Chulalongkorn Hospital, elaborated on the current standard of care for haemophilia treatment as recommended by the World Federation of Haemophilia - prophylactic treatment. "Instead of waiting for bleeding episodes to occur, prophylaxis involves regularly infusing clotting factor concentrates, typically 1-2 times per week, to maintain adequate factor levels above 1% at all times. This preventive approach helps avoid bleeding episodes altogether and allows for near-normal musculoskeletal development and function in haemophilia patients."
"Ensuring equitable access to comprehensive haemophilia care is a top priority for Novo Nordisk," said Enrico Cañal Bruland, VP & General Manager, Novo Nordisk Pharma (Thailand). "Through the 'EquiStep' project, we aim to support haemophilia patients by providing holistic resources that can improve their quality of life, in line with Novo Nordisk's policy of collaborating with all stakeholders to elevate the quality of life for patients. We hope that this collaborative project will spark everyone to see the importance of the rights that patients should have in accessing treatment, in order to create equity in access to medical care and in Thai society."
The "EquiStep" collaboration underscores the shared vision and ambition of Novo Nordisk, Nanyang, and the Thai Haemophilia Patient Club to fostering equity in healthcare access and improving outcomes for individuals living with haemophilia in Thailand. The shoes are designed to symbolise equality and non-discrimination, highlighting the importance of awareness about equality and underscoring the potential for patients to lead normal lives with proper treatment.
