World Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome Day, observed annually on June 9th, is dedicated to raising awareness about Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS), a disorder where the immune system mistakenly creates antibodies that make the blood much more likely to clot.
This can lead to significant health issues, including the risk of stroke, lung problems, and pregnancy complications such as miscarriage. The day serves as an opportunity to educate the public on the symptoms and challenges faced by those with APS, and to underscore the importance of medical research in this field. People are encouraged to wear burgundy to show support for individuals affected by APS and to share information and personal stories to help spread awareness. Treatment for APS typically involves medications to prevent blood clots and lifestyle changes to reduce risk factors. World Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome Day plays a crucial role in highlighting the needs and experiences of those living with this condition.
What is Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome
Antiphospholipid (AN-te-fos-fo-LIP-id) syndrome is a condition in which the immune system mistakenly creates antibodies that attack tissues in the body. These antibodies can cause blood clots to form in arteries and veins.
Blood clots can form in the legs, lungs and other organs, such as the kidneys and spleen. The clots can lead to a heart attack, strokes and other conditions. During pregnancy, antiphospholipid syndrome also can result in miscarriage and stillbirth. Some people who have the syndrome have no signs or symptoms. There’s no cure for this uncommon condition, but medications can reduce the risk of blood clots and miscarriage.
Symptoms:
As per Mayo Clinic, signs and symptoms of antiphospholipid syndrome can include:
- Blood clots in legs (DVT). Signs of a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) include pain, swelling and redness. These clots can travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism).
- Repeated miscarriages or stillbirths. Other complications of pregnancy include dangerously high blood pressure (preeclampsia) and premature delivery.
- Stroke. A stroke can occur in a young person who has antiphospholipid syndrome but no known risk factors for cardiovascular diseases.
- Transient ischemic attack (TIA). Similar to a stroke, a transient ischemic attack (TIA) usually lasts only a few minutes and causes no permanent damage.
- Rash. Some people develop a red rash with a lacy, net-like pattern.
Less common signs and symptoms include:
- Neurological symptoms. Chronic headaches, including migraines; dementia and seizures are possible when a blood clot blocks blood flow to parts of the brain.
- Cardiovascular disease. Antiphospholipid syndrome can damage heart valves.
- Low blood platelet counts (thrombocytopenia). This decrease in blood cells needed for clotting can cause episodes of bleeding, particularly from the nose and gums. Bleeding into the skin will appear as patches of small red spots.
History of World Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome Day
World Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome Day, observed annually on June 9th, was established to raise awareness about Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS), a rare autoimmune disorder. The APS Foundation of America, founded in 2005, initiated the first World APS Day on June 9th, 2010, in celebration of its 5th anniversary. The day is dedicated to educating the public about APS, a condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks normal proteins in the blood, leading to the formation of antibodies that increase the risk of blood clots. These clots can occur in various organs, including the lungs, kidneys, and brain, and can have serious consequences if left untreated. World APS Day encourages people to wear burgundy to spread awareness, share personal stories, and support APS research. It’s a day of global solidarity and education, aiming to improve the lives of those affected by APS.
About APS Foundation
Founded in 2005, the APS Foundation of America, Inc. is dedicated to fostering and facilitating joint efforts in the areas of education, public awareness, research, and patient services for Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) in an effective and ethical manner.
APS Foundation of America focuses on raising awareness and supporting research for Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS), a rare autoimmune disorder. This foundation is dedicated to educating about APS, its symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and providing support to those affected by the condition. Both foundations share a commonality in their commitment to bettering society, whether through philanthropy or health advocacy.
The mission of the foudnation is to spread awareness of APS and other clotting problems and for patients, family and friends to understand this disease. You can find our full mission and goals here.
How to Observe World Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome Day
World Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome Day, observed annually on June 9th, is dedicated to raising awareness about this rare autoimmune disorder. On this day, people are encouraged to wear burgundy to help spread awareness and show solidarity with those affected by the syndrome.
Sharing personal stories and experiences with APS can also be a powerful way to educate others and foster a sense of community. Additionally, learning more about the condition and supporting APS research through donations can make a significant impact. Engaging in social media campaigns using the hashtag #WorldAPSDay is another effective way to participate and help increase public understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with APS.
World Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome Day Dates
World Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome Day has been observed annually on June 9 for the past five years, from 2019 to 2029. Here are the specific dates for each year:
| Year | Date | Day |
| 2019 | 9-Jun-19 | Sunday |
| 2020 | 9-Jun-20 | Tuesday |
| 2021 | 9-Jun-21 | Wednesday |
| 2022 | 9-Jun-22 | Thursday |
| 2023 | 9-Jun-23 | Friday |
| 2024 | 9-Jun-24 | Sunday |
| 2025 | 9-Jun-25 | Monday |
| 2026 | 9-Jun-26 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | 9-Jun-27 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | 9-Jun-28 | Friday |
| 2029 | 9-Jun-29 | Saturday |
