Rare Disease Day: 28th February

What is a rare disease?

A rare disease, also known as an orphan disease, is a health condition that affects a small percentage of the population. In the United States, a disease is considered rare if it affects fewer than 200,000 people.

How many rare diseases are there?

There are thousands of rare diseases, with new ones being discovered regularly. Estimates suggest that there are between 6,000 to 8,000 rare diseases.

What are the challenges faced by individuals with rare diseases?

Individuals with rare diseases often face challenges such as misdiagnosis, limited treatment options, lack of research, and social isolation due to the rarity of their conditions.

Why is Rare Disease Day celebrated on 28th February?

February 28th is chosen for Rare Disease Day because it is a rare date, and it symbolizes the rare nature of these diseases. In leap years, the day is observed on February 29th.

How can I get involved in Rare Disease Day?

You can get involved by participating in local events, sharing information on social media using the official hashtags, supporting rare disease organizations, and educating others about the challenges faced by those with rare diseases.