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Research

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50 Years of Research and Innovation

Since our establishment in 1974, WACBD has been at the forefront of hematology clinical research. Each year has brought new challenges, discoveries, and advancements in our understanding and treatment of blood disorders. While we can't list every achievement here, this timeline represents our ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in hematology research.

1940

1940’s and 50’s Treatment is limited to whole blood transfusions, bed rest, leg braces, and compression

1946

KCCBB opens its first dedicated facility at the corner of Terry and Madison streets in Seattle, thanks to community fundraising and property donations.

1950

In the 1950's and 60's, while clotting factor concentrates had been discovered, Rich Counts and Art Thompson took a cautious approach against them due to report of hepatitis.

1964

Cryoprecipitate discovered.

1967

Dr. Brinkhouse et al discover a method to distill cryoprecipitate into clotting factor.

1970

  • First Clotting factor concentrates become available to patients. 
  • Richard Counts refined methods to produce cryoprecipitate with high yield of factor VIII.

1974

  • Hemophilia Care Program Established King County.
  • Blood Center changed name to Puget Sound Blood Center

1976

  • Camp I-VY 
  • Brainchild of Maribel Johnson and Pauli Miller.
  • Sunset Lake Youth Camp.
  • For patients and their families.
  • “Children have fun actives, but they also have training sessions to help them better manage their lives” (Art Thompson).

1977

Arthur R. Thompson develops a radioimmunoassay to detect factor IX antigen, aiding in the diagnosis of hemophilia B and identifying carriers.

2000

Safer Clotting Factor. The implementation of an 80°C terminal dry heat treatment to enhance the safety of clotting factor concentrates for patients with hemophilia A was reported in a 2000 study. This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of a highly purified factor VIII preparation that underwent both solvent/detergent treatment and final dry heat treatment at 80°C for 72 hours.

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Critical Bleeding Disorder Research

At WACBD, our team of tenured hematologists and researchers is dedicated to conducting critical clinical research on bleeding disorders. Our experts bring decades of experience and a passion for innovation to every study we undertake. From investigating new treatments for hemophilia to exploring novel diagnostic techniques for rare blood disorders, our research aims to make a real difference in the lives of those affected by these conditions.

Our clinical research studies cover a wide range of topics, including:

  • Novel factor replacement therapies for hemophilia

  • Gene therapy approaches for inherited blood disorders

  • Improved diagnostic methods for von Willebrand disease

  • Management strategies for women with bleeding disorders

  • Long-term outcomes in patients with rare clotting factor deficiencies

Through our rigorous clinical trials and observational studies, we're not just advancing scientific knowledge – we're paving the way for better treatments, improved quality of life, and potentially even cures for bleeding disorders.

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Our Research Collaborators

At WACBD, we believe that the best research comes from collaboration. That's why we've established partnerships with leading research institutions and hematology centers around the world. These collaborations allow us to pool resources, share knowledge, and accelerate the pace of discovery in hematology clinical research.

Our international partnerships span across continents, bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise. From joint clinical trials with European hemophilia centers to data-sharing initiatives with Asian hematology research groups, our collaborative efforts are truly global in scope. These partnerships not only enhance the quality and reach of our research but also ensure that our findings have the broadest possible impact on patient care worldwide.

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At WACBD, our commitment to hematology clinical research goes hand in hand with our dedication to patient care. Every study we conduct, every partnership we form, and every discovery we make is driven by our ultimate goal: improving the lives of individuals affected by blood disorders.

Want to learn more about how WACBD makes a difference through research and community support? Visit our About Us or Contact Us to discover the many ways we're working to advance hematology care and research.

Our Research Team

Our clinical are team is made up of trained hematology providers, master level nurses and social worker, and highly specialized physical therapists.

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24-Hour Triage & Consultation

If this is a medical emergency, please dial 911. For urgent bleeding concerns outside of regular business hours, call: (206) 614-1200

[For non-emergency inquiries during business hours, please call (206) 614-1200]

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