July 23

World Sjogren’s Day

Join the global movement on World Sjogren's Day to raise awareness and support for those living with this chronic autoimmune disease.

Yearly Date
July 23
Type
Day
Category
Health

Introduction

Mark your calendars for July 23 because it's time to raise awareness for a rare and often misunderstood condition on World Sjogren's Day! This day is dedicated to shining a light on Sjogren's Syndrome, an autoimmune disorder that affects the body's ability to produce moisture – resulting in dry eyes, mouth, and other symptoms. Despite being named after Swedish ophthalmologist Henrik Sjögren who first identified the syndrome in 1933, it wasn't until 2016 that this day was officially recognized by the International Foundation for Autoimmune & Autoinflammatory Arthritis (IFAA). Let's come together to educate and support those living with Sjogren's Syndrome and celebrate their strength and resilience.

World Sjogren’s Day Timeline

1933
Sjogren's Syndrome Identified
Swedish ophthalmologist Henrik Sjögren identifies the syndrome and describes its symptoms for the first time.
1983
Sjogren's Syndrome Foundation Founded
The Sjogren's Syndrome Foundation is founded in the United States to fight the disease by raising funds for research and providing patient education.
1994
World Health Organization Recognition
The World Health Organization (WHO) officially recognizes Sjogren's Syndrome as a serious, disabling autoimmune disease.
2008
First International Sjogren's Conference
The first international Sjogren's conference is held to promote global research collaborations and increase awareness about the disease.
2016
World Sjogren's Day Created
The International Foundation for Autoimmune & Autoinflammatory Arthritis (IFAA) designates July 23 as World Sjogren's Day.

How to Celebrate World Sjogren’s Day

1

Spread awareness on social media

Use your social media platforms to educate others about Sjogren’s syndrome and its impact. Share personal stories, infographics, and resources to raise awareness.

2

Host a fundraiser for Sjogren’s research

Organize a charity event or online fundraiser to support research for Sjogren’s syndrome. This can be a fun way to raise money and bring people together for a good cause.

3

Attend a support group meeting

Find a local support group for individuals with Sjogren’s and attend a meeting to connect with others who understand the challenges of living with this condition. You may even learn some new tips and tricks for managing symptoms.

4

Create a Sjogren’s care package

Put together a care package filled with items that can help ease symptoms of Sjogren’s, such as eye drops, lip balm, and sugar-free gum. Give it to a friend or family member who has been diagnosed with the condition.

5

Write a letter to a legislator

Use World Sjogren’s Day as an opportunity to advocate for better healthcare policies for individuals with chronic illnesses like Sjogren’s. Write a letter to your local legislator expressing your support for increased funding and resources for research and treatment options.

Why World Sjogren’s Day is Important

A

Raising awareness for a lesser-known condition

World Sjogren's Day is important because it helps to bring attention to a condition that many people may not be familiar with. By spreading awareness, we can help those suffering from Sjogren's syndrome to feel less isolated and alone.

B

"Unite for better health"

The theme of World Sjogren's Day is "Unite for better health", emphasizing the importance of coming together as a community to support those affected by this condition. It reminds us of the power of unity and working towards a common goal.

C

Supporting research and finding a cure

By recognizing World Sjogren's Day, we can also support the ongoing research efforts to find better treatments and eventually a cure for this condition. Every bit of awareness and support helps in the fight against Sjogren's syndrome.

World Sjogren’s Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Jul 23
Sunday
2024
Jul 23
Tuesday
2025
Jul 23
Wednesday
2026
Jul 23
Thursday
2027
Jul 23
Friday