July 10: Chronic Disease Awareness Day – Raising Awareness for Lifelong Conditions

Chronic Disease Awareness Day, observed annually on July 10, is dedicated to increasing public understanding of chronic illnesses, advocating for better healthcare access, and supporting those living with long-term health conditions. The date was chosen because 7 out of the top 10 leading causes of death in the United States are chronic diseases.

Autoimmune and autoinflammatory arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), lupus, and axial spondyloarthritis, are chronic diseases that require lifelong management. This awareness day highlights the challenges faced by individuals with these conditions and encourages proactive healthcare measures.

What Are Chronic Diseases?

Autoimmune and Autoinflammatory Arthritis as Chronic Diseases

Autoimmune and autoinflammatory arthritis are lifelong conditions where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, leading to inflammation, joint damage, and systemic complications. With AiArthritis diseases there is potential organ involvement as some forms can affect the heart, lungs, and kidneys. Since these conditions do not have a cure, raising awareness on early diagnosis, treatment options, and patient support is crucial.

How to Participate in Chronic Disease Awareness Day

Chronic Disease Awareness Day is led by the national nonprofit advocacy organization Good Days, in partnership with more than two dozen national patient advocacy organizations. Their mission is to raise awareness, advocate for better healthcare access, and support individuals living with chronic illnesses through educational campaigns, policy forums, and community engagement.

Learn more about Chronic Disease Awareness Day

There are several ways to get involved in Chronic Disease Awareness Day and support individuals living with chronic illnesses:

 Participate in the “I Stay Strong” Campaign

• Write your reason for staying strong (e.g., “For my family” or “For my future”) on your palm.
• Take a photo and post it on social media channels Facebook and Instagram using the official campaign hashtag #ChronicDiseaseDay
• Tag three friends to encourage participation and raise awareness. You could be featured on ChronicDiseaseDay.org by doing this!

Spread Awareness

• Share educational posts on social media using hashtags like #ChronicDiseaseDay and #AutoimmuneAwareness.
• Talk to friends and family about chronic disease challenges to foster understanding.
• Encourage workplaces and schools to provide accommodations for individuals with chronic illnesses.

Schedule a Wellness Checkup

• Preventative healthcare is key in managing chronic diseases.
• Book an annual checkup to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar levels, and inflammation markers.
• Discuss early symptoms of autoimmune diseases with a doctor to ensure timely diagnosis.

Support Chronic Disease Advocacy Groups

• Donate to organizations that fund research and patient support programs.
• Volunteer for chronic disease awareness events in your community.
• Sign petitions advocating for better healthcare policies and insurance coverage for chronic disease patients.

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