“A disease or disorder is defined as rare in the USA when it affects fewer than 200,000 Americans at any given time.” – raredisease.org

Rare Disease Day takes place every year on the last day of February. The purpose is to raise awareness about rare diseases and their impact on patient’s lives.

Most rare disorders have no cure, and many go undiagnosed. Raising awareness can encourage researchers and decision makers to address the needs of those living with rare diseases.

According to CORD (Canadian Organization for Rare Disorders) as many as 1 in 12 Canadians will be impacted by a rare disease.

Amyloidosis is one of them. Many people with Amyloidosis will see multiple doctors and be misdiagnosed. It may take years to receive an accurate diagnosis. Sadly, there are some who never manage to get diagnosed.

The Amyloidosis Foundation reports that experts suspect some types of Amyloidosis are not that rare, but rarely diagnosed. Awareness of the Amyloidosis diseases, particularly within the medical community, can lead to earlier diagnosis. Which means better treatment options and a brighter prognosis.

Raisng awareness of rare diseases, like Amyloidosis will encourage research and lead to earlier diagnosis. To find out more about Rare Disease Day and how you can get involved visit Rare Disease Day. Show your rare!!