A disease is considered rare when it affects fewer than 1 in 2000 people. Rare Disease Day is a globally-coordinated movement, working towards equity in social opportunity, healthcare, and access to diagnosis and therapies for people living with a rare disease. Raising awareness and generating change for the 300 million people worldwide living with a rare disease, their families and carers.
Those living with a rare disease face many challenges, including:
- Difficulties in access to treatment and care, often resulting in heavy social and financial burdens on patients.
- A lack of scientific knowledge and quality information on the disease, often resulting in delays in diagnosis.
- Instances of misdiagnosis.
Get involved with Rare Disease Day by:
- Spreading awareness of the event
- Making a donation
- Joining or hosting a local event
For more information, visit:
https://www.rarediseaseday.org/what-is-a-rare-disease/