NCT05022459 · Wayne State University
Prevention of Bleeding in Patients With Moderate and Severe Hemophilia A Playing Sports: A Comparison Between Factor VIII and Emicizumab Prophylaxis
(STEP)
What this study is about
Hemophilia A (HA) is a genetic bleeding disorder resulting from a deficiency or absence of factor VIII (FVIII), which is necessary in the clotting process. This disorder occurs mostly in males and in severe cases causes frequent bleeding episodes in joints and muscles which can lead to progressive damage that affects mobility and quality of life.
View original scientific description
Hemophilia A (HA) is a genetic bleeding disorder resulting from a deficiency or absence of factor VIII (FVIII), which is necessary in the clotting process. This disorder occurs mostly in males and in severe cases causes frequent bleeding episodes in joints and muscles which can lead to progressive damage that affects mobility and quality of life. Prophylactic FVIII administered intravenously every other day has been the standard of care treatment for HA for the past few decades. Sports and physical activity are generally encouraged in patients with hemophilia on appropriate prophylactic treatment to increase strength, prevent or decrease obesity, accrue and maintain bone density and encourage normal socialization. To ensure safety with participation in sports in persons with hemophilia A (PWHA), timing of FVIII administration is often adjusted to maximize FVIII at the time of sports. The exact factor level that is needed to safely participate in sports and minimize bleeding risk is not yet known. Based on clinical practice, infusion of FVIII to near the lower limit of normal right before participation in sports generally works to prevent bleeding. The study is looking at how well the newly approved medication Emicizumab works compared to Factor VIII to prevent bleeding in patients with Hemophilia A who play sports. The study will enroll children and adolescents who are already on Emicizumab or Factor VIII who are currently playing sports.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Participant (if 18 years of age or older) or parent/LAR is willing and able to provide written informed consent; minor participant is willing and able to provide assent, if applicable based on site and local regulations
- Males and females between 6 to ≤ 19 years of age at time of enrollment with moderate to severe Hemophilia A (FVIII activity ≤ 5%) without inhibitors are eligible for participation in this study
- Participants must be on Emicizumab or standard FVIII prophylaxis per institutional/primary hematologist recommendations
- Participants must be engaging in or registered to start participating in one or more sports activities with moderate to high risk of bleeding as defined by the NHF- Playing it Safe guidelines (numerical rating \>/= 2).
- Participant must be willing to keep activity, bleed, and treatment logs for the duration of the study
Exclusion criteria
- Participant/parent/LAR unwilling to provide informed consent/assent
- Unwilling to log or document bleeds and treatment information as per study guidelines
- Participants with any other bleeding disorders will be excluded
- Patients who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding should not be enrolled in the study
- Participants on concomittent FVIII replacement and emicizumab for sports participation
Where
- Little Rock, Arkansas
- Palo Alto, California
- San Diego, California
- St. Petersburg, Florida
- Chicago, Illinois
- Indianapolis, Indiana
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Detroit, Michigan
- Cincinnati, Ohio
- Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jul 2, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations