About Rare Disease Day

Find out what Rare Disease Day is about

29 February 2020 will be the thirteenth international Rare Disease Day coordinated by EURORDIS. On and around this day hundreds of patient organisations from countries and regions all over the world will hold awareness-raising activities. 

Rare Disease DayWhat is Rare Disease Day?

Rare Disease Day is held on the last day of February every year to raise awareness of rare diseases.
Read more

Rare DiseaseWhat is a Rare Disease?

A rare disease, also referred to as an orphan disease, is any disorder that affects a small percentage of the population. Although the disease may be rare, patients and families share a common struggle.
Read more

 

Rare Disease DayOverview of Past Rare Disease Days

See year-by-year highlights and how Rare Disease Day has grown since its first celebration in 2008!
Read more

Share this
Download materials
News
The power of art – painting a brighter future for people living with a rare disease
The power of art – painting a brighter future for people living with a rare disease
Art events are powerful tools to raise awareness for people living with a rare disease. This year Rare Disease Day saw a wide variety of art events around the world engaging all members of the communi...
19 May 2020
World landmarks shining a light for Rare Disease Day – individual and local efforts send a global message!
World landmarks shining a light for Rare Disease Day – individual and local efforts send a global message!
A real highlight from Rare Disease Day this year was seeing the spectacular sight of buildings and monuments lighting up to raise awareness. From well-known landmarks such as the Colosseum and the wor...
09 Apr 2020
Read all news