OUR STORY
Every person with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus has a unique journey shaped by healthcare, inclusion, family support, education, employment, independent living and ageing.
World Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Day 2026 highlights these experiences across the life course, from preconception to ageing,and calls for stronger policies, services and awareness to ensure dignity, equity and quality of life at every stage.
From access to folic acid and maternal health information, to early intervention, inclusive education, employment opportunities, accessible environments and healthy ageing, people with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus should be supported throughout their lives.
WHY IT MATTERS
Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus are lifelong conditions affecting millions of people and families worldwide. Despite progress in prevention, healthcare and rehabilitation, many people still face barriers to healthcare, education, employment, accessibility and inclusion.
WSBHD raises awareness, challenges stigma and advocates for the rights and inclusion of persons with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus worldwide.
The campaign also promotes:
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prevention through folic acid;
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access to healthcare and rehabilitation;
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continuity of care throughout life;
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inclusive education and employment;
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independent living and accessibility;
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healthy ageing and participation in society.
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Together, we work towards a world where every person with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus can live with dignity and fully participate in society.
HOW IT STARTED
World Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Day was officially established in 2011 during the General Meeting of the International Federation for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus (IF) in Guatemala City.
The first official World SBH Day was celebrated on 25 October 2012 to increase global awareness and understanding of Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus.Since then, WSBHD has grown into a global awareness and advocacy campaign bringing together organisations, healthcare professionals, families and advocates worldwide.
OUR
JOURNEY THROUGH
THE YEARS
2011 World Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Day was officially established during the IF General Meeting in Guatemala City.
2012: The first official World SBH Day was celebrated globally on 25 October.
2013–2015: The campaign expanded internationally, raising awareness about prevention, access to healthcare and the importance of inclusion.
2016–2018: Greater emphasis was placed on human rights, participation and sharing lived experiences of persons with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus.
2019: Organisations and advocates worldwide increased collaboration to strengthen awareness and advocacy activities at national and international levels.
2020: During the COVID-19 pandemic, WSBHD activities moved online, allowing the community to connect globally through webinars, digital campaigns and virtual events.
2021: The campaign highlighted resilience, inclusion and the importance of maintaining access to healthcare and support services during global challenges.
2022: WSBHD celebrated its 10th anniversary, recognising a decade of global awareness, advocacy and community engagement.
2023: The campaign continued to amplify the voices and experiences of persons with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus across different regions and life stages.
2024: WSBHD activities were connected with international advocacy efforts and global discussions on disability inclusion, healthcare and equity.
2025: Under the theme “Accelerate Action”, the campaign called for stronger commitments towards prevention, healthcare, inclusion and human rights for persons with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus worldwide. #WSBHD2025 #Action4SBH
THIS YEAR
World Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Day 2026 focuses on the experiences of persons with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus throughout the life course, from preconception to ageing.
This year’s campaign calls for:
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stronger prevention strategies;
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equitable access to healthcare and rehabilitation;
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continuity of care across all life stages;
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inclusive policies and services;
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greater recognition of lived experiences.
Together, we celebrate the experiences, resilience and contributions of persons with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus at every age and stage of life.