The last day of February has been designated as Rare Disease Day in Massachusetts to call attention to the public health issues associated with rare diseases, which affect nearly 30 million Americans and countless others around the world.

Every year, MassBio celebrates Rare Disease Day by bringing together nearly 300 industry stakeholders to elevate public understanding of rare diseases and call attention to the special challenges people with these ailments face.

The event convenes patient organizations, government agencies, medical researchers, life sciences companies and patients to share stories and recognize the great work being done in Massachusetts and beyond to provide new treatments and cures for diseases that affect nearly 30 million Americans.