Search
Close this search box.

Health observance days, weeks, or months are devoted to promoting and raising awareness about particular health concerns.

Raising awareness is critical to advance research and improve care for people affected by FGIMDs. The more we spread the word and talk openly about these conditions, the greater our ability to make connections with people who can benefit from our support and raise the funds needed to provide it.  A higher profile can translate into larger federal investments in research activities and a stronger commitment from industry to develop new treatment options. 

You can help.

February

Rare Disease Day

Rare disease day takes place worldwide, typically on or near the last day of February each year, to raise awareness among policymakers and the public about rare diseases and their impact on patients’ lives.

Awareness - IBS

IBS Awareness Month

IBS Awareness Month is listed on the U.S. National Health Observances calendar. If you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), you are not alone – IBS is common with prevalence estimated at 5% to 10%. Yet many people remain undiagnosed and unaware that their symptoms indicate a medically recognized disorder.

Awareness Month - gastroparesis

Gastroparesis Awareness Month

During the month of August, IFFGD works to focus attention on important health messages about gastroparesis diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life issues. The goals include improving understanding of gastroparesis to help patients and families manage the condition, and encouraging preventive strategies.

Awareness Week - GERD

GERD Awareness Week

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a very common disorder. Each year around the week of Thanksgiving, IFFGD encourages people experiencing the symptoms, which may be GERD-related, to consult their physicians and to contact us to receive information and support regarding the condition.

ConstipationPoster e1638364143263

Constipation Awareness Month

Although not on the U.S. National Health Observance calendar, IFFGD acknowledges the need to raise awareness for Constipation during the month of December

Share this page
Topics of this article
Was this article helpful?

IFFGD is a nonprofit education and research organization. Our mission is to inform, assist, and support people affected by gastrointestinal disorders.

Our original content is authored specifically for IFFGD readers, in response to your questions and concerns.

If you found this article helpful, please consider supporting IFFGD with a small tax-deductible donation.

Related Information
IFFGD Travel Awards

Background of IFFGD’s Travel Awards IFFGD first offered Travel Awards in 2023. To date, we have presented Awards to 23 young investigators from around the

Read More »
IFFGD’s 2024 Virtual Digestive Health Wellness & Walk Event: A Unique Charitable Event with Achievable Goals for All

The 2024 Virtual Digestive Health Wellness & Walk held Saturday, July 6, 2024 – Saturday, July 13, 2024 is a charitable event to raise money to support gastrointestinal illness research. 

Like a traditional walk, participants register to be active to get credit for steps taken during the event. However, this event goes beyond a step goal by also awarding points to participants for self-care, wellness, and outreach activities.

By adding these alternative activities, we hope that anyone that wants to participate, can participate. #Moves4GIhealth24

Read More »
Personal Stories
IFFGD Travel Awards

Background of IFFGD’s Travel Awards IFFGD first offered Travel Awards in 2023. To date, we have presented Awards to 23 young investigators from around the

Read More »
IFFGD’s 2024 Virtual Digestive Health Wellness & Walk Event: A Unique Charitable Event with Achievable Goals for All

The 2024 Virtual Digestive Health Wellness & Walk held Saturday, July 6, 2024 – Saturday, July 13, 2024 is a charitable event to raise money to support gastrointestinal illness research. 

Like a traditional walk, participants register to be active to get credit for steps taken during the event. However, this event goes beyond a step goal by also awarding points to participants for self-care, wellness, and outreach activities.

By adding these alternative activities, we hope that anyone that wants to participate, can participate. #Moves4GIhealth24

Read More »
Skip to content