On Thursday, 10th July 2026, Harry’s Hydrocephalus Awareness Trust (Harry’s HAT) will host Global Get-A-Head Day, a worldwide initiative to spotlight the critical importance of measuring a baby’s head circumference. This simple, non-invasive check can be life-saving, aiding in the early detection of conditions like hydrocephalus. The campaign invites individuals and communities globally to participate by sharing messages, graphics, and personal stories, amplifying the call for enhanced awareness and improved healthcare practices.
What is Global Get-A-Head Day?
Global Get-A-Head Day is an annual awareness event spearheaded by Harry’s HAT to emphasize the significance of regular head circumference measurements in infants. Such measurements are vital for the early identification of hydrocephalus—a condition where excess cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the brain, potentially leading to severe complications if left untreated. Early detection through routine measurements can facilitate timely interventions, improving outcomes and saving lives.
When is Global Get-A-Head Day?
This year’s Global Get-A-Head Day is scheduled for Thursday, 10th July 2026. Participants are encouraged to engage by sharing campaign graphics, posting on social media with the hashtag #GlobalGetAHead, and submitting short videos explaining their support for the initiative. These collective efforts aim to flood social media with informative content, raising global awareness about the importance of infant head circumference measurements.
Why Head Circumference Measurement Matters
Measuring a baby’s head circumference is a straightforward, cost-effective procedure that can detect abnormal growth patterns indicative of underlying health issues like hydrocephalus. In the UK, current guidelines recommend measurements at birth, during the 6-8 week check-up, and whenever there are concerns about a child’s development. However, a 2023 survey by Harry’s HAT revealed that only 20% of new parents were aware of the importance of these measurements, highlighting a significant gap in public knowledge.
Early detection of hydrocephalus is crucial. Symptoms can include a rapidly growing head, a bulging fontanelle, vomiting, drowsiness, and downward-looking eyes, among others. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious complications, including brain damage and developmental delays.
How to Participate
Everyone can contribute to the success of Global Get-A-Head Day:
- Share Campaign Graphics: Utilize the specially designed graphics available for Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to spread the message.
- Post on Social Media: Use the hashtag #GlobalGetAHead to share information and personal stories, helping to raise awareness.
- Submit a Video: Record a 15-second video starting with “I support Global Get-A-Head Day because…” and explain your reasons. Ensure the video is in portrait mode and well-lit. Email your video to info@harrys-hat.org for a chance to be featured in the campaign’s promotional reel.
About Harry’s HAT
Founded in 2018, Harry’s Hydrocephalus Awareness Trust (Harry’s HAT) is a UK-based charity dedicated to supporting children and families affected by hydrocephalus. The organization focuses on raising awareness, funding research and training, and providing resources to improve the management and understanding of the condition. Through initiatives like the Get-A-Head campaign, Harry’s HAT advocates for better healthcare practices, including more frequent and standardized head circumference measurements for infants.
Relevant Hashtags
- #GlobalGetAHead
- #MeasureBabyHeads
- #HydrocephalusAwareness
- #HarrysHAT
Relevant Links
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