Happy Rare Disease Day! Each year, this day shines a spotlight on rare diseases, helping to raise awareness for the 300 million+ people around the world who live with a rare disease. 

Did you know living with a rare disease isn’t actually that uncommon? According to the National Organization for Rare Diseases (NORD), one in every 10 Americans is affected by a rare disease. 

In the United States, a rare disease is generally considered one affecting fewer than 200,000 people across the country. By the numbers, NTM is a rare disease, impacting an estimated 86,000-200,000+ Americans. Bronchiectasis is technically not a rare disease; between 340,000 and 522,000 adults are receiving treatment for bronchiectasis in the U.S. However, bronchiectasis is still underrecognized and often misdiagnosed. 

As you may know firsthand, people with rare or uncommon diseases often face additional challenges, from difficulty getting a timely diagnosis to limited research and lack of community support. In honor of Rare Disease Day, we stand together with millions of people around the world. We encourage you to share your story and connect with others who understand what it’s like to live with a rare disease.