The most common bleeding disorder is von Willebrand disease (vWD), which is found in approximately 1-2% of the U.S. population.

Causes

VWD results from a deficiency or defect in the body's ability to make von Willebrand factor, a protein that helps blood clot.

Symptoms

Although VWD occurs in men and women equally, women are more likely to notice the symptoms because of heavy or abnormal bleeding during their menstrual periods and after childbirth.

References:

Soucie JM, Nuss R, Evatt B, Abdelhak A, Cowan L, Hill H, Kolakoski M, Wilber N, and the Hemophilia Surveillance System Project Investigators.  Mortality among males with hemophilia: relations with source of medical care.  Blood 2000;96:437-442