May is globally recognized as Disease Awareness Month, with May 12 specifically designated as Disease Awareness Day. This day is an opportunity for patient organizations and experts to enhance knowledge, recognition, and understanding of various diseases, advocating for further research to benefit patients. In 2017, disease awareness saw a significant increase when popstar Lady Gaga shared her battle with fibromyalgia, shedding light on the intense pain, movement restrictions, depression, medications, and hospitalizations she endured. This sparked discussions and connected individuals with similar symptoms to seek diagnosis and support.
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition that affects approximately 3% of the population. It was first recognized in the 19th century but was officially classified as a syndrome by rheumatologists in the 20th century. Today, specialized fibromyalgia clinics exist in medical centers globally, including Israel