World Rare Disease Day is observed to raise awareness for the over 300 million people living with rare diseases. The campaign aims to achieve fair access to diagnosis, treatment, equal opportunities and inclusiveness in society for these people. Observed on the last day of every February, the theme this year is telehealth.
There are over 6000 identifiable rare diseases, with 72% being genetic in nature. They afflict around 3.5 – 5% of the global population. It's high time the global policymakers advocate rare diseases as a human rights priority.