Do You Know About Myasthenia Gravis? A Rare Neuromuscular Disease

By: Dario Baquero, Founding Director of the Fe Mundo Social SDG Corporation

Every June 2nd marks World Myasthenia Gravis Awareness Day, a date dedicated to raising visibility for a rare, neuromuscular, and autoimmune disease that often goes unnoticed and misunderstood.

Myasthenia Gravis weakens voluntary muscles and affects basic functions such as speaking, chewing, moving, or even breathing. Although it is neither contagious nor always visible, its effects can be profoundly limiting. Many patients face not only the burden of physical symptoms but also delayed diagnoses, limited access to effective treatments, and social indifference toward lesser-known diseases.

Reflecting on this day invites us to take urgent and compassionate action:

Listen beyond what’s visible: Many people with Myasthenia Gravis live with chronic fatigue or muscle weakness—symptoms that are often minimized or misunderstood.

Get informed and raise awareness: Shining a light on rare diseases is a key step toward building a truly inclusive and equitable healthcare system.

Supporting Research and Access to Treatment:

The fight is also about public policy, healthcare coverage, and access to medication for those who face these challenges every day.

On this day, we honor those living with Myasthenia Gravis, their families, caregivers, and dedicated healthcare professionals. We remind them that they are not alone. Compassion, knowledge, and collective action are the true allies in this silent struggle.

This disease can affect people of any age, but it is more common in women under 40 and men over 60.