Every September 20, World Hydrocephalus Day unites organisations, families, and communities around the globe to raise awareness of hydrocephalus, a condition affecting hundreds of thousands of children and adults worldwide. It’s a day dedicated to education, visibility, and solidarity, amplifying the voices of those living with hydrocephalus and their families.
What is World Hydrocephalus Day?
World Hydrocephalus Day is an international observance established by the Hydrocephalus Association (HA), based in the United States. It forms part of Hydrocephalus Awareness Month, held every September. The day highlights the experiences of individuals and families affected by hydrocephalus, while bringing together medical experts, charities, and advocates to push for better awareness, earlier diagnosis, and improved care worldwide.
When is World Hydrocephalus Day?
World Hydrocephalus Day takes place every year on September 20. In 2024, the campaign focused on showcasing the many faces of hydrocephalus through shared stories, family experiences, and educational outreach.
Why World Hydrocephalus Day Matters
Globally, around 400,000 children every year are diagnosed with hydrocephalus, a condition that occurs when excess cerebrospinal fluid builds up within the brain. Without treatment, it can cause developmental, neurological, and sometimes life-threatening challenges.
Raising awareness is crucial. By amplifying real stories and lived experiences, World Hydrocephalus Day helps educate communities, reduce stigma, and empower families to recognise the signs of hydrocephalus earlier. It also supports advocacy for research, resources, and medical innovation to improve lives.
How to Get Involved in World Hydrocephalus Day
There are many ways to support the day and raise awareness:
Advocate for Medical Research:
Share Stories: Families are encouraged to share their lived experiences to highlight the many faces of hydrocephalus.
Use Social Media: Post with the hashtag #WorldHydrocephalusDay to join the global conversation.
Learn More: Visit worldhydrocephalusday.org for resources and educational material.
Partner with Charities: Support or collaborate with hydrocephalus-focused organisations to strengthen advocacy and outreach.
History of World Hydrocephalus Day
The initiative was launched by the Hydrocephalus Association, which has worked for decades to improve lives through advocacy, education, and support. By collaborating with international partners and charities, World Hydrocephalus Day has grown into a truly global observance, raising visibility for a condition that often goes unrecognised.
Noteworthy Facts
Hydrocephalus is sometimes called “water on the brain” and can occur at any age, though it is most common in infants and older adults.
The only known treatment is brain surgery, typically involving a shunt or an endoscopic procedure to drain excess fluid.
Awareness and early diagnosis are vital to reducing complications and improving long-term outcomes.
Sharing family stories has become a powerful way to connect communities and drive education across generations.
Hashtags
#WorldHydrocephalusDay
#HydrocephalusAwareness
#HydrocephalusMonth
#FacesOfHydrocephalus
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