Rare Disease Day
A disease is rare when it affects less than 1 per 2000 persons. It is estimated there are about 6000 to 8000 rare diseases, affecting some 350 million patients around the world. About 75% of these patients are children, out of which 30% die before their fifth birthday. Rare diseases are characterized by a wide range of diversified disorders and symptoms, varying not only from one disease to another but also from one patient to another, albeit suffering from the same disease. For this reason, rare diseases are generally considered a heavy burden upon the shoulders of societies. Under the theme: “Rare, but Strong Together,” World Rare Disease Day is celebrated every year at the end of February. It aims to raise health awareness of patients, their families, all society members, and decision-makers with regard to the most severe rare diseases affecting society, their effect on patient's lives, and how to combat them.