Rare Disease Day: Uniting for a Common Cause

Every year on the last day of February, the world comes together to mark Rare Disease Day. This globally coordinated movement seeks to increase awareness about rare diseases, a pressing public health challenge affecting 300 million people worldwide.

What are Rare Diseases?

Rare diseases are conditions affecting a small percentage of the population, yet collectively, they impact 5% of us globally. There are over 6,000 identified rare diseases, many of which are genetic, typically manifest in childhood, and often have unknown causes. These conditions are not only hard to diagnose but also lack targeted treatments. The 5-year survival rate for patients with rare cancers is significantly lower than for those with more common cancers, highlighting the urgent need for more research and better healthcare support.

What is Rare Disease Day?

Rare Disease Day, observed globally on February 28—or February 29 in leap years—since 2008, plays a crucial role in bringing attention to rare diseases. This day is not just about awareness; it is a powerful movement that brings together all healthcare industry stakeholders including advocates, researchers, and policy-makers to push forward vital initiatives. Each year, the event catalyzes a special effort to increase understanding and foster advancements in research, treatment, and policy. The aim is to create a stronger support network and improve care for patients with rare diseases.

Elevate Health Technologies' Rare Disease Commitment

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Rare Disease Day is a reminder of how we stand in solidarity with the patients, families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals who are on the front lines of the fight against rare diseases.

At Elevate Health Technologies, we partner with healthcare professionals, pharmaceutical manufacturers, payers and patients to reinvent the patient experience through innovative technology, for the best possible outcomes. On this day and every day, we remain committed to advancing treatments and care of patients with complex, chronic conditions and rare diseases.

For more information on partnering with Elevate Health Technologies to support Rare Diseases, visit www.ElevateHT.com.

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