National International Aortic Dissection Awareness Day
National Aortic Dissection Awareness Day is observed annually to raise awareness about aortic dissection, a life-threatening medical condition. This day aims to educate the public and healthcare professionals about the symptoms, risk factors, and importance of early diagnosis and treatment. Aortic dissection occurs when a tear develops in the inner layer of the aorta, the body’s largest artery, causing blood to flow between the layers of the aortic wall. If untreated, it can lead to fatal complications.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: September 19 every year.
- Tagged as: Health Awareness, Medical Emergency.
- What’s the hashtag?: #ThinkAorta.
- When was it founded?: 2016.
- Who founded it?: Timo Söderlund, a survivor of Type A aortic dissection, along with other advocates from Sweden, Italy, and the UK.
History
Aortic Dissection Awareness Day was established in 2016 to spotlight this often-overlooked condition. Initially spearheaded by survivors and advocacy groups in Europe, it has since grown into a global movement. The day serves as a platform for patient stories, medical advancements, and public education campaigns like “Think Aorta,” which emphasizes early recognition and diagnosis.
Timeline
- 1760s: First documented case of aortic dissection by Dr. Frank Nicholls.
- 1980s: Advancements in imaging technology improve diagnosis rates.
- 2016: Official founding of Aortic Dissection Awareness Day.
- 2020s: Global campaigns like “Think Aorta” expand awareness efforts.
- 2023: Largest awareness event hosted in Edinburgh by Royal College of Surgeons.
Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | September 19 | Friday |
| 2026 | September 19 | Saturday |
| 2027 | September 19 | Sunday |
| 2028 | September 19 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | September 19 | Wednesday |
| 2030 | September 19 | Thursday |
Observed
This day is marked globally with events such as educational seminars, patient support gatherings, and social media campaigns. Hospitals and organizations host free screenings and distribute resources to help people understand the symptoms and risks of aortic dissection.
Fun Facts About
- Over 10,000 cases of aortic dissection occur annually in the U.S., yet many remain undiagnosed until it’s too late.
- The condition disproportionately affects men in their 60s and 70s but can occur at any age.
- Famous figures like actor John Ritter tragically passed away from undiagnosed aortic dissection.
Quiz
- What is an aortic dissection?
- When is National Aortic Dissection Awareness Day observed?
- What is the key hashtag used for this awareness campaign?
- Who founded this awareness day?
(Answers: 1. A tear in the inner layer of the aorta; 2. September 19; 3. #ThinkAorta; 4. Timo Söderlund.)
FAQs
- What are common symptoms of an aortic dissection?
Severe chest or back pain described as “tearing,” shortness of breath, or fainting. - Can it be prevented?
Risk factors like high blood pressure and smoking can be managed to reduce risk. - Is surgery always required?
Type A dissections usually require emergency surgery, while Type B may be managed medically.
Related
- Marfan Syndrome Awareness
- Vascular Disease Awareness Month
- Think Aorta Campaign
