About Rare Diseases

A disease or disorder is defined as rare in Europe when it affects less than 1 in 2000. One rare disease may affect only a handful of patients in the EU, and another touch as many as 245,000. There are between 6000 and 8000 rare diseases. On the whole, rare diseases may affect 30 million European Union citizens. 80% of rare diseases are of genetic origin, and are often chronic and life-threatening.

 

What is a rare disease?

A disease or disorder is defined as rare in Europe when it affects less than 1 in 2000 citizens (Orphan Drug Regulation 141/2000). Rare diseases may affect 30 million European U

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Find information or help for a rare disease

List of validated information services and portals for rare diseases.

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Rare diseases: a public health priority

“To promote rare diseases as a public health priority” is one of Eurordis' most important stated objectives. With this in mind, Eurordis has come to the conclusion t

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International Rare Disease Day - 28 Feb

 “Patients & Researchers: Partners for Life!” For this annual event hundreds of patient groups and their partners organise activities to raise awareness

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Rare Disease Day 2010

This year’s Rare Disease Day, on February 28th, drew more partners in more countries and better quality events than ever! 

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