We’ve all heard of the big ones. Social media feeds are often peppered with links and symbols to draw our attention towards good causes. From ice bucket challenges to no smoking days and Movember, charities are constantly looking for ways to connect with the public. There are now thousands of separate day, week, and monthly initiatives throughout the calendar. With so many, it’s easy to miss out on some of the smaller events which are equally as important. As a way to get conversations started, we look below at five awareness drives taking place this September which may have slipped your attention.

National Sickle Cell Month

10 years ago, World Sickle Cell Awareness Day was proclaimed as being on June 19th. Further to this, there is also a whole month dedicated to the cause through September. Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is actually a collection of associated blood disorders. Genetically transmitted, around three-quarters of SCD cases occur in Africa. With only 1 in 5,000 Americans suffering this condition, it’s something which requires more few Americans are acutely aware of at present.

Sepsis Awareness Month

A recent survey revealed around 55% of Americans had heard of Sepsis. Yet more people die in America from Sepsis than from breast cancer, HIV, and prostate cancer combined. Of patients diagnosed with severe Sepsis, around 40% do not survive. Furthermore, half of those who do will suffer ongoing problems. With no known cure for this disease, early detection remains the best chance patients have. As such, increased awareness is needed for a problem which claims a life every 2 minutes across the states.

Sports Eye Safety Month

Many awareness initiatives aim to raise funds for finding cures or educating towards early detection. Some are more concerned with prevention rather than a cure. Use of protective eyewear has become common in the workplace. In sports, however, this is not the case. Around 90% of sports-related eye injuries are preventable. With partial or total blindness a distinct possibility from such an injury, bringing safety to fun pursuits is the main goal of this drive.

National Atrial Fibrillation Awareness Month

Afib, or AF as it is often referred, is a common but relatively unknown condition. Simply put, it is an irregular heartbeat. While not directly life-threatening, this heart rhythm disorder can lead to some serious problems. The most common of which is a stroke which can result from blood clots being formed and spread through the body. With over 3 million Americans believed to suffer this disorder, there are many treatments available to tackle it. The first step, however, is recognizing the signs. This is something the awareness month hopes to achieve.

CMT Awareness Month (Charcot-Marie-Tooth)

April is the month of National Foot Health Awareness. September, however, targets a more specific foot problem. Charcot-Marie-Tooth is a neurological disorder which slowly weakens the bones of the feet. As a rare condition, it can easily be overlooked and diagnosed as something else. Like all other medical conditions, it’s something best treated as early as possible. Through spreading awareness, it’s hoped more people will avoid limb-threatening complications which can arise. For more information, click here to learn more.