Rare Disease Day is held on the last day of February every year to raise awareness of rare diseases. February 29, 2020 will be the 13th international Rare Disease Day. On and around this day hundreds of patient organisations from countries and regions all over the world will hold awareness-raising activities.

What is a Rare Disease?

There are over 300 million people living with one or more of over 6,000 identified rare diseases around the world.

1 in 12 Canadians is living with a rare disease.

Rare diseases currently affect 3.5% – 5.9% of the worldwide population.

People living with a rare rare disease need equitable access to diagnosis, treatment and care.

 

 

There are several types of rare and dangerous skin cancer. Click on each below to learn more:

 

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Events in Canada

Join five national rare disease organizations at an interactive exhibit to bring visibility to the many ways that living with a rare disease can impact the lives of everyday Canadians.

When: Fri, February, 28th, 8am – 6pm

Where: Sam Pollock Square, within Brookfield Place.

What: This exhibit will highlight the experiences of a number of patients from across the country. Public, patients, caregivers, and policymakers are welcome to explore, interact, and share what makes YOU rare.

The event will be hosted by radio personality and broadcaster Josie Dye, who shares a special connection to Canada’s rare disease community.

For us, our partners, and the approximately 1 in 12 Canadians living with a rare disease, every day is Rare Disease Day.