The last day of February is Rare Disease Day, dedicated to bringing widespread recognition of the challenges faced by people living with rare diseases. There are nearly 7,000 rare diseases and together they affect nearly 30 million Americans, about one in every 10 people. Two-thirds of these are children.

The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) is proud to be the official U.S. sponsor of Rare Disease Day. They created this two-minute animated video that explains what Rare Disease Day is and how individuals can participate.

What is Rare Disease Day?

Image from video

Note: This resource was produced by an independent organization. The information and views expressed herein should not be construed as representative of or endorsed by the U.S. Department of Education.

Added February 24, 2014.