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Rare Disease Day 2024: The world’s rare diseases go unnoticed on a daily basis, even when they deserve attention. When very few people are affected by a disease, it may not be part of the mainstream news – making it difficult for us to access such information. However, rare diseases can be fatal and take many lives. Rare Disease Day is celebrated every year to create awareness about rare diseases and how they can affect the daily lives of patients. As we prepare to celebrate Rare Disease Day this year, here are some facts we must know about this important day.
Also read: Rare diseases: small numbers, heavy burden
date:
Rare Disease Day is celebrated every year on the last day of February. Every year, Rare Disease Day is observed on 28 February. However, since the year 2024 is a leap year, Rare Disease Day will be observed on February 29. This year, this day falls on Thursday.
History:
In 2008, Eurodis, together with the National Alliance Council, declared 29 February as Rare Disease Day in recognition of the rarity of the date in the calendar. In the first year of the celebration, Rare Disease Day saw the participation of eighteen countries in Europe. Since then, Rare Disease Day is celebrated every year on the last day of February.
Importance:
According to the official website of the National Organization for Rare Diseases, “One in 10 Americans is living with a rare disease. More than 300 million people worldwide suffer from rare diseases. Often, these individuals and families are left isolated and with no answers to their medical questions. It doesn t have to be that way. Rare Disease Day is a global initiative to raise awareness and generate support for all people who are on the rare disease journey. This happens on the last day of February, which is February 29 this year, which is the rarest day of the year.
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