April is Sarcoidosis Awareness Month

Sarcoidosis is a rare inflammatory disease characterized by the formation of granulomas—clusters of immune cells—in various organs, most commonly the lungs, lymph nodes, skin, and eyes. The exact cause remains unknown, though it is believed to result from an overactive immune response to environmental or genetic factors. Symptoms may include persistent cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, skin rashes, and eye irritation. Treatment typically involves immunosuppressive medications to reduce inflammation and prevent organ damage.

In Croatia, the Association of Patients with Sarcoidosis – Croatia provides support to individuals affected by sarcoidosis and their families.

The website https://www.sarkoidoza.eu/ was launched in 2023 in response to the growing number of questions shared within the Facebook group “Sarkoidoza-bolest – snježne pahulje.”

Out of the need for increased awareness, advocacy for proper healthcare and social rights, and access to reliable information, the Association was established. Through a multidisciplinary team approach, it helps those living with sarcoidosis by fostering knowledge about rare diseases, exchanging experiences, and supporting patients in better understanding their condition and improving their quality of life.

The Association is dedicated to supporting both patients and their loved ones.

Contacts:

Association of Patients with Sarcoidosis

Mramorni prilaz 8a, 10040 Zagreb

Tel. +38599 1674 555

e-mail: info@uos-sarkoidoza.hr

web: http://www.sarkoidoza.eu

To mark World Sarcoidosis Awareness Day, a public Forum on the Challenges of Treatment, Care, and Social Rights for people living with sarcoidosis will be held on April 14, 2025, starting at 9:00 AM, at Kaptol 27, Zagreb, in the City of Zagreb Forum Hall.

Link: https://www.sarkoidoza.eu/promicanje-svijesti/tribina-o-osvijestenosti-o-sarkoidozi

This content was developed with the financial support of the Ministry of Health. The content of this document is the sole responsibility of the Croatian Alliance for Rare Diseases and can under no circumstances be regarded as reflecting the views of the Ministry of Health.