Rare Disease Day 2024: Everything you need to know about the rare disease community

The world’s rare diseases may not be as popular in the public imagination, even though they should be. Because these diseases don’t affect many people, they may not be in the mainstream news, making it difficult for us to learn about them. Either way, rare diseases are dangerous and can claim many lives.

Rare Disease Day is celebrated every year to raise awareness about existing rare diseases and their importance in the daily lives of patients. As you prepare for this year, here are some facts you need to know.

History of Rare Disease Day 2024:

In 2008, EURORDIS, together with the Council of National Alliances, declared that Rare Disease Day should be celebrated on February 29, as it is a rare day on the calendar . 18 European countries joined forces to celebrate the first annual Rare Disease Day. From this point forward, Rare Disease Day will be celebrated on the last day of February each year.

Rare Disease Day is held on the last day of February each year. It is celebrated on February 28th. However, since 2024 is a leap year, this year it will be observed on February 29th (Thursday).

Importance of Rare Disease Day 2024:

“One out of every 10 Americans is living with a rare disease. Worldwide, there are more than 300 million people with rare diseases. Too often, these individuals and families are left isolated and without 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 everyone who is on a rare medical journey. It takes place on the last day of February, which this year is February 29th, the rarest day of the year,” states the National Organization for Rare Diseases’ official website.

This Day raises awareness of rare diseases as a global health concern while also promoting respect and validity. One should not assume that a rare illness is any less important than other, more common health problems just because it is rare.

Reducing detachment, misconceptions, and loneliness, RDD enables smaller rare illness populations to negotiate partnerships. Even though you do not have a rare illness like you do, there are many things in common between us that make our experiences relevant.