Rare Disease Day
February 28
RARE DISEASE DAY IS TAKING PLACE ON 28th FEBRUARY 2026
Did you know that there are 3.5 million people in the UK living with a rare condition? And that 1 in 17 people will be affected by a rare condition at some point in their lives?
Rare Disease Day is a globally coordinated movement dedicated to rare diseases, striving for equity in social opportunities, healthcare, and access to diagnosis and therapies for people living with a rare disease.
Since its creation in 2008, Rare Disease Day has played a crucial role in building an international rare disease community—multi-disease, global, and diverse, yet united in purpose.
Though Rare Disease Day is patient-led, everyone—including individuals, families, caregivers, healthcare professionals, researchers, clinicians, policymakers, industry representatives, and the general public—can participate in raising awareness and taking action for this vulnerable population in urgent need of attention.
By spreading the word on social media, organising events, illuminating buildings, monuments, and homes, sharing experiences online and with friends, calling on policymakers, and shining a light on people living with a rare disease, we collectively aim to change and improve the lives of 300 million people worldwide.
Why not get involved and share your story ! Write a blog, post your story on Social Media, speak at an event or fundraise for your cause.
#RareDiseaseDay #StoriesBehindTheStats #RareConditions #GeneticConditions
Source: Rare Disease Day 2026