Facts and figures

There are more than 6,000 different types of rare disorders, with more being discovered each day.

There are an estimated 300 million people living with a rare disorder worldwide.

72% of rare diseases are genetic in origin and thus are present throughout a person's life even if the symptoms do not immediately appear.

Approximately 50% of the people affected by rare diseases are children.

95% of rare diseases have no approved drug treatments.

Approximately 50% of rare diseases do not have a disease specific foundation supporting or researching their rare disease.

Source: Rare Diseases International 

Find the latest data on living with a rare disorder in Aotearoa New Zealand here.