Date
Thursday
May

May 1-31

Fibromyalgia Education and Awareness Month

Join us this Fibromyalgia Education and Awareness Month to learn more about this chronic condition, support those affected, and spread awareness for better understanding.

Yearly Date
May 1
Type
Month
Category
Health

Introduction

Get ready to learn and spread awareness about a condition that affects millions of people worldwide – it's Fibromyalgia Education and Awareness Month! Every May 1, individuals and organizations come together to educate others about this chronic pain disorder, as well as raise funds for research and support services. Did you know that fibromyalgia affects mostly women, but can also occur in men and children? Despite its prevalence, many are still unaware of the symptoms and impact of this condition. So let's use this month to not only educate ourselves but also spread compassion and understanding towards those who may be suffering from fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia Education and Awareness Month Timeline

1821
First Documented Symptoms
William Balfour, a surgeon at the University of Edinburgh, describes the symptoms of what we now know as fibromyalgia.
1975
Term 'Fibromyalgia' Coined
The term "fibromyalgia" is first used by P.K. Hench to describe chronic, widespread pain and tender points on the body.
1990
Fibromyalgia Diagnostic Criteria
The American College of Rheumatology establishes official diagnostic criteria for fibromyalgia, aiding in diagnosis and clinical studies.
2007
First FDA-Approved Treatment
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approves Lyrica for the treatment of fibromyalgia, the first medication approved specifically for the condition.
2011
Second Edition Diagnostic Criteria
The American College of Rheumatology publishes the second edition of the fibromyalgia diagnostic criteria.
2019
National Fibromyalgia Association
The National Fibromyalgia Association continues to empower and educate the fibromyalgia community, healthcare professionals, and the public about the disorder.

How to Celebrate Fibromyalgia Education and Awareness Month

1

Host a fundraiser for fibromyalgia research

Organize a charity event or fundraiser to raise money and awareness for fibromyalgia. This could be anything from a bake sale to a 5K run, and all proceeds can go towards supporting research and education about the condition.

2

Wear purple to show your support

Purple is the official color for fibromyalgia awareness, so encourage others to wear purple throughout the month to show their support and help spark conversations about the condition.

3

Share educational resources on social media

Spread awareness about fibromyalgia by sharing informative articles, videos, and infographics on your social media platforms. This will help educate others about the condition and its impact on those who live with it.

4

Organize a support group meeting

Connect with others who have fibromyalgia by organizing a support group meeting in your community. This will provide a safe and understanding space for individuals to share their experiences and support one another.

5

Attend a fibromyalgia awareness event

Look for local events or conferences dedicated to fibromyalgia education and awareness and attend them to learn more about the condition and connect with others in the community.

Why Fibromyalgia Education and Awareness Month is Important

A

Spreading awareness and understanding

Fibromyalgia Education and Awareness Month is an important time for spreading knowledge and understanding about this chronic pain disorder. Many people are still unaware of what fibromyalgia is, which can lead to judgment and misunderstanding towards those who suffer from it. By educating others, we can help break down these barriers and create a more supportive environment.

B

Encouraging self-care and support

During this month, there is a focus on promoting self-care practices for those living with fibromyalgia. This includes things like exercise, relaxation techniques, and healthy eating habits. It also reminds us of the importance of providing support and understanding to our loved ones who may be struggling with this condition.

C

Advocating for research and treatment

By raising awareness and education during this month, we also hope to encourage more research and funding for fibromyalgia treatments. There is still much to be learned about this condition, and by advocating for more resources, we can work towards finding better treatment options and ultimately improving the lives of those affected.

Fibromyalgia Education and Awareness Month Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Apr 30
Sunday
2024
Apr 30
Tuesday
2025
Apr 30
Wednesday
2026
Apr 30
Thursday
2027
Apr 30
Friday