About Rare Disease Day

Rare Disease Day provides an opportunity to shine the light on the more than 6,000 diseases that share the distinction of affecting fewer than 1 in 2,000 persons, but taken together affect between 3.5 an 5.9% of the world population. Seventy-two percent of rare diseases are genetic as are 1 in 5 cancers, including most pediatric cancers. Rare diseases are often misdiagnosed, lifelong, and may have limited treatment options because of a lack of research. (Statistics from RareDiseaseDay.org)

Find additional information and U.S.-specific statistics at the National Organization for Rare Disorders and the Every Life Foundation for Rare Diseases.

Prayers of the Faithful

That doctors will have wisdom to accurately and quickly diagnose and treat rare diseases, providing comfort and support to patients and families.

That persons who experience rare diseases may, along with their families and caregivers, find solidarity networks so they do not feel alone and can benefit from sharing experiences and advice.

For equitable systems that respect the dignity of all persons and for international collaboration in research, may inclusive approaches lead to better outcomes and options for persons with rare diseases.

Share Stories

It can be hard to put a face on rare diseases because each is incredibly different from the next. Instead, ask for parishioner stories that can help others understand some of the very real challenges involved in rare diseases and the very wide range of types and manifestations of rare diseases.