International Ataxia Awareness Day

International Ataxia Awareness Day is celebrated annually on September 25th. This day is dedicated to spreading awareness about a group of disorders called ataxia. Patients with this diagnosis have difficulty with balance, swallowing, movement, and speech. Despite the fact that the disease is rare, it deserves to be talked about, and to study how it affects a person and their quality of life.

History

According to statistics, one in 50,000 people is diagnosed with ataxia. The name of the disease has Latin roots and means ‘lack of order’, caused by damage to the cerebellum. The main cause of ataxia is heredity, since the cerebellar form of the disease is genetic. In addition, there are other causes – a brain tumor, stroke, head injuries, and infections. International Ataxia Awareness Day was established by the National Ataxia Foundation, which was founded in 1957.

Interesting Facts

• Knowledge of ataxia helps identify the pathology in a timely manner, enabling treatment, and encourages developing a cure.
• In some cases, the disease is fatal, which is why it is important to provide the patient emotional and physical support to maintain a normal lifestyle.
• Some forms of ataxia lead to death in childhood, and some are treatable.

How to Take Part

Take a special test, which will determine whether there is a risk of developing the disease. Talk to your doctor, knowledge is half the battle. Spread information about ataxia on social networks, involving as many people as possible in this topic, and encourage people to lead a healthy lifestyle. Join the events hosted by the National Ataxia Foundation.

When is International Ataxia Awareness Day in 2024?

International Ataxia Awareness Day is observed on September 25 each year.

Observations