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?

A chronic disease is a health condition that lasts one year or more, requires ongoing medical care, and may limit daily activities. Unlike acute illnesses, chronic diseases do not have a quick cure and often require long-term treatment and lifestyle adjustments.

Common chronic diseases include:

Autoimmune and autoinflammatory arthritis (RA, PsA, lupus, ankylosing spondylitis)
Diabetes
Heart disease
Cancer
Chronic respiratory diseases (asthma, COPD)
Neurological disorders (Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s)

Chronic diseases can result from genetic factors, environmental influences, lifestyle choices, or immune system dysfunction. They often require multidisciplinary care, including medication, physical therapy, dietary changes, and mental health support. It's not uncommon for people with a chronic disease to have co-existing conditions.

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.

Calendar with colorful push pins marking dates.

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.

Poster for Chronic Disease Awareness Day with text and a lightbulb graphic.

Discover More Awareness Dates

Join the Movement to Raise Global Awareness for AiArthritis! Autoimmune and autoinflammatory arthritis diseases affect millions—but awareness is still catching up. That’s why AiArthritis Awareness Days are more than just dates on a calendar—they’re a rallying cry for change.

From social media campaigns to educational events and symbolic merchandise, these days spark vital conversations and connect patients, advocates, and healthcare professionals worldwide. Be part of the momentum—share, support, and spread the word!

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