Disease is a part of the human condition. Some diseases are rarer than others. You might be wondering: what specifically classifies as a rare disease?
In Canada, we usually refer to the European definition, which states that a disease is considered rare if it affects fewer than 1 in 2,000 individuals. It is estimated that there are over 7,000 known rare diseases. Some examples of rare diseases include cystic fibrosis, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) and haemophilia.
Some rare diseases have been researched extensively, while others that are extremely rare are less documented. Most rare diseases are serious and debilitating and require lifelong management. Although there isn’t a cure for many rare diseases, appropriate care and treatment can improve the quality of life of and extend life expectancy of people living with rare diseases.
You don’t have to have a rare disease to care about rare diseases. Reading up on or talking to people living with rare diseases is a great place to start.
Additionally, did you know that the last day of February is World Rare Disease Day? Iconic buildings, landmarks and monuments are lit up to raise awareness of, advocate for and celebrate the rare disease community. Seeing all the colours at night is a reminder of our differences, but that our differences are also what make us beautifully human. Take care of yourselves and each other.
by Steve Bond, BScPhm, RPh, FASCP
