Paget’s Awareness Day

Paget’s Awareness Day is observed on January 11. This day highlights Paget’s disease of bone, a chronic condition that interferes with the body’s normal recycling process where new bone tissue replaces old bone tissue. Over time, the disease can cause affected bones to become fragile and misshapen. The awareness event seeks to educate the public and medical professionals about the importance of early diagnosis to prevent complications like fractures and hearing loss.

History of Paget’s Awareness Day

The day was established in 2019 by the Paget’s Association to coincide with the 205th anniversary of the birth of Sir James Paget. Sir James Paget was a prominent British surgeon and pathologist who first provided a detailed clinical description of the condition in 1877. Before his research, the symptoms were often misdiagnosed or poorly understood. By naming the condition after him, the medical community honors his contribution to bone health and pathology. ¹

Since its inception, the day has grown from a local initiative in the United Kingdom into an international observance. The Paget’s Association works with researchers and patients to distribute information about the latest genetic studies and treatment options. Recent history shows a focus on identifying specific genetic markers, such as the SQSTM1 gene, which are linked to the development of the disorder. This historical emphasis on research helps provide a clearer understanding of why the disease affects certain populations more than others.

Why is Paget’s Awareness Day important?

Paget’s disease is the second most common metabolic bone disorder globally, yet it remains underdiagnosed because it is often asymptomatic in its early stages. Many individuals only discover they have the condition after an accidental finding on an X-ray or a routine blood test showing high levels of alkaline phosphatase. Without intervention, the abnormal bone remodeling can lead to severe bone pain, osteoarthritis, and even heart failure in rare cases due to increased blood flow to the affected bones.

The importance of the day lies in its push for early treatment, which typically involves the use of bisphosphonates. These medications help regulate the bone-building process and can effectively stop the progression of the disease if administered before permanent deformities occur. Raising awareness also reduces the isolation felt by those living with the condition. By focusing on education, the day empowers patients to ask their doctors for the specific tests needed to monitor their bone health.

Early detection prevents irreversible damage to the skeletal system
The day promotes awareness of the hereditary nature of the condition
It helps patients access specialized care from rheumatologists
Increased funding supports research into new diagnostic tools
Public knowledge helps identify symptoms like localized warmth and bone pain

How to Observe Paget’s Awareness Day

Participants often wear royal blue to show their support for the community and to initiate conversations about bone health. Educational workshops and webinars are frequently held to provide the latest updates on research and management strategies. Many people use the day to share personal stories or informative graphics on social platforms to reach a wider audience. Individuals with a family history of the disease may use this occasion to consult with their healthcare provider about their own risk factors.

Another practical way to observe the day is by supporting organizations that fund research and provide patient resources. Some communities organize coffee mornings or charity runs to raise money for clinical trials and support groups. Health professionals might use the day to review the latest clinical guidelines for diagnosing the condition in older adults. Sharing the “Paget’s Passport,” which is a patient-held record of their condition, is also encouraged to help improve communication between different medical specialists.

Wear royal blue clothing to spark discussions about the disease
Share clinical facts about bone remodeling on social media
Donate to charities that fund research into metabolic bone disorders
Watch educational videos from medical experts about treatment options
Encourage family members to discuss their bone health history