Aortic Dissection Awareness Day

Aortic Dissection Awareness Day is marked each year on September 19. In 2026, this date falls on a Saturday. This global observance focuses on educating the public about aortic dissection, a life-threatening medical emergency that occurs when a tear forms in the inner layer of the aorta. The day encourages people to learn the symptoms, seek timely treatment, and support individuals and families affected by this condition.

History of Aortic Dissection Awareness Day

Aortic Dissection Awareness Day was founded in 2016 by Timo Söderlund, a type A aortic dissection survivor from Sweden. He established the day to shine a light on rare aortic diseases, including dissection, and to encourage greater awareness among the public and medical professionals. The observance began as a grassroots effort and has since expanded into a global movement, with hospitals, patient organizations, and advocacy groups participating each year.

The day is now recognized internationally, with events held across the UK, Ireland, Sweden, and other countries. In the UK, The Aortic Dissection Charitable Trust leads many awareness activities, including educational symposia, fundraising events, and social media campaigns. The snow leopard serves as a symbol for the condition, representing its rarity and the silent, often undetected nature of aortic disease. Over time, the day has grown to include a full month of activities in September, which also coincides with Vascular Disease Awareness Month.

Why is Aortic Dissection Awareness Day important?

Aortic dissection is the most common aortic emergency, with approximately 70 people per week affected in the UK and Ireland alone. Type A aortic dissection carries a mortality rate of about 2% per hour within the first 24 hours, and acute type B dissection results in a mortality rate of up to 10% over 30 days. More than 2,000 patients die from aortic dissection each year in the UK and Ireland. Raising awareness is critical because early diagnosis and treatment dramatically improve survival chances.

The condition has claimed the lives of many notable individuals, including actors John Ritter and Alan Thicke, as well as musician Andy Fletcher of Depeche Mode. Yet there are also survivors, such as New Zealand cricketer Chris Cairns and guitarist Richie Faulkner of Judas Priest, whose stories offer hope. Aortic Dissection Awareness Day provides a platform to honor those lost, celebrate survivors, and push for better education, diagnostics, and long-term care.

• Experiencing a sudden severe tearing or ripping pain in your chest or back
• Fainting or feeling extremely lightheaded
• Having a history of high blood pressure or connective tissue disorders
• Developing sudden shortness of breath or difficulty speaking
• Noting a difference in blood pressure between your arms

How to Observe Aortic Dissection Awareness Day

Participate by sharing educational content on social media using the hashtags #AorticDissection, #AortaEd, or #AortaSupporta. You can also sign petitions calling for improved emergency room diagnostics and policy changes related to aortic disease. Many organizations host webinars, conferences, and community events where survivors and experts share their experiences and the latest research.

Another meaningful way to observe the day is to fundraise for organizations like The Aortic Dissection Charitable Trust, which supports patient education and research. You might also commit to a healthier lifestyle by managing blood pressure, eating a balanced diet, and quitting smoking—all actions that support aortic health. Connecting with other affected individuals through local support groups or online forums can also provide comfort and build a stronger community.

Aortic Dissection Awareness Day Dates