2026 THEME
WSBHD26:
A Lifetime of Experiences: From Preconception to Aging
WHY THIS THEME?
Spina Bifida & Hydrocephalus are lifelong conditions that affect people in different ways throughout their lives.
From prevention and maternal health, to childhood care, adolescence, independent living, employment and ageing, persons with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus may experience changing needs and barriers at every stage of life.
This year’s theme highlights the importance of lifelong support, inclusion, accessibility and dignity for all. World Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Day 2026 also aims to celebrate the experiences, resilience and contributions of persons with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus across generations.
ACROSS THE LIFE COURSE
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Preconception: Awareness, prevention and access to folic acid remain essential to reducing neural tube defects worldwide.
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Childhood: Early intervention, healthcare, rehabilitation and inclusive education help children thrive and participate fully in society.
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Adolescence: Transitioning to adulthood requires support, accessibility, mental wellbeing and opportunities for independence.
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Adulthood: Access to employment, healthcare, relationships, mobility and community participation remain fundamental rights.
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Ageing: As more persons with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus live longer lives, healthy ageing, continuity of care and social inclusion become increasingly important.
GET
INVOLVED!
You can support WSBHD2026 in many ways:
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Share this year’s campaign and hashtags on social media;
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Organise a local awareness activity or event;
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Share your lived experience or story;
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Participate in IF webinars and activities;
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Use and distribute the WSBHD2026 toolkit;
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Advocate for inclusion, accessibility and lifelong support.
Together, we can raise awareness and strengthen action for persons with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus worldwide.
KEY
MATERIALS
See last year's materials:
Download the IF toolkit here:
- In Spanish, courtesy of the Madrid Association of Spina Bifida (AMEB)
- In Chinese (text-only version), courtesy of the China Association of Persons with Physical Disabilities
CALL
TO SHARE
All the materials and social media toolkit published by IF intends to facilitate everyone to join us and celebrate #WSBHD26 so please, feel free to share this information widely among your network.
For any general question about WSBHD 2026, please send an email to info@ifglobal.org