
Rare Diseases
Rare diseases are medical conditions that affect a small percentage of the population, often defined as fewer than 200,000 individuals in the United States. These diseases can be genetic, infectious, or acquired and often present unique challenges in diagnosis and treatment due to their rarity. Patients may experience a range of symptoms, and lack of awareness can lead to misdiagnosis or delayed care. Despite their rarity, rare diseases collectively impact millions worldwide, highlighting the need for research and support to improve understanding and treatment options for affected individuals and their families.
Additional Insights
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Rare diseases are health conditions that affect a small percentage of the population, typically fewer than 200,000 people in the United States. These illnesses can be genetic, infectious, or autoimmune and often present significant challenges for diagnosis, treatment, and research due to their limited prevalence. Patients may struggle to find specialists and receive appropriate care. Awareness and advocacy for rare diseases are crucial, as they can lead to better funding for research, improved treatments, and support networks for those affected and their families.