World Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Day

World Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Day, observed each year on October 25, is a moment to shine a light on the lives of people living with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus, to raise awareness of the challenges and triumphs they face, and to advocate for their rights and inclusion in society.

History of World Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Day

The day was officially established in 2011 by the International Federation for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus (IF) at its General Assembly in Guatemala, with the aim of raising awareness and understanding about spina bifida and hydrocephalus worldwide. ¹
Though the first global events took place in 2012 (for example, at the European Parliament in Strasbourg) under the umbrella of this observance, the efforts have since grown to include worldwide campaigns, regional webinars, and social media advocacy. ²

Why is World Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Day important?

When I reflect on this day, what strikes me is its dual nature: on one hand it’s about education, explaining what spina bifida and hydrocephalus are, how they affect people, and the barriers faced — and on the other hand, it’s deeply personal, honoring real people’s lives, their resilience, and their right to live fully. It invites us to move beyond clinical labels and instead see individuals with dreams, with daily challenges, with social and human potential that should be supported.
It also reminds us that awareness isn’t just about knowing words, but about changing systems and attitudes — advocating for access to prevention, health care, inclusive education, and a world where having a condition like spina bifida or hydrocephalus doesn’t mean being sidelined. In that way, the day is a call to action for communities, policymakers, and individuals alike.
Here are five heartfelt reflections about why this day matters:

• People with spina bifida and hydrocephalus often face stigma or lack of understanding, and this day helps lift that burden.
• It underscores that early diagnosis, care and support can make a real difference in quality of life.
• By raising awareness globally, we help encourage prevention strategies (for example, folic acid supplementation) and improve access in under‑resourced areas.
• Celebrating this day is about recognizing the achievements and contributions of persons with these conditions, not just their challenges.
• It unites families, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and advocates — reminding us we’re not alone in this journey.

How to Celebrate or Observe World Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Day

Observing this day doesn’t require elaborate plans — even small, thoughtful actions can help make an impact. Perhaps you might engage with a local group or charity that supports people with spina bifida and hydrocephalus, attend an online event or webinar, share a story or fact on social media, or simply take time to learn about these conditions and how they affect real lives. That kind of awareness‑building matters.
You could also turn it into a personal moment: reach out to someone you know who lives with one of these conditions and let them know you’re thinking of them; or if you’re in a position to volunteer time or support, consider donation or advocacy efforts. The main idea is to move from knowing to doing— spreading awareness, fostering inclusion, challenging misconceptions.
Here are five simple ideas you might try:

• Share a personal story or fact about spina bifida or hydrocephalus on social media with the hashtag #WSBHD25 (or the current year).
• Attend or host a virtual talk or livestream that features people living with these conditions and their families.
• Make connections with a local or international organisation supporting the spina bifida/hydrocephalus community and ask how you can help.
• Educate yourself by reading articles or watching videos about prevention, care and the lived experience of those affected.
• Use the day to reflect on accessibility and inclusion in your community — are there barriers you can help address or raise awareness of?

World Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Day Dates Table

1. https://ifglobal.org/our-work/wsbhd/[↩]
2. https://www.worldspinabifidahydrocephalusday.com/our-story[↩]