Rare Disease Day 28th of February

Rare Disease Day is dedicated to raising awareness about rare diseases and the challenges faced by people living with them, as well as their families. It is observed every year on February 28, with the main goal of emphasizing prevention, early diagnosis, care, and support for people with rare diseases worldwide.

What is a rare disease? (1)

A disease is considered rare when it affects fewer than 1 in 2,000 people in the general population, according to the European definition.

In Europe, it is estimated that over 6,000 different rare diseases have been recorded to date.

Epidemiological Data (1,2)

More than 300 million people worldwide are living with a rare disease.

Approximately 5% of the global population is affected by a rare disease overall.

72% of rare diseases are genetic in origin, and about 70% manifest during childhood.

In Greece, approximately 350,000 to 600,000 people are affected

Only about 5% of rare diseases currently have an approved treatment.

Objectives of the Day

Rare Disease Day aims to:

Increase knowledge and awareness of rare diseases among the general public and relevant authorities.

Highlight the need for early diagnosis and support for people living with rare diseases.

Promote equal access to healthcare and social services for all, without discrimination.

The message “More Than You Can Imagine” reminds us that rare diseases are not as distant or uncommon as they may seem. (3)

It highlights that there are:

More people than you imagine (300+ million).

More diseases than you imagine (over 7,000 recorded).

More daily challenges than most people realize — from diagnosis to treatment and long-term care.