2026 Health Awareness Calendar
Welcome to our 2026 health awareness calendar! Throughout the year, there are many important dates that shine a spotlight on different aspects of health and wellbeing. We've put together this guide to help you stay informed and get involved in campaigns that matter to you and your community.
January 2026
1–31 January: Dry January
Starting the year with Dry January has become a popular tradition across the UK. This month-long break from alcohol gives your body a chance to recover from the festive season and can lead to better sleep, more energy, and improved overall health. It's also a great time to reflect on your relationship with alcohol. Did you know that excessive drinking can affect your blood pressure and put extra strain on your kidneys?
February 2026
4 February: World Cancer Day
World Cancer Day brings people together globally to raise awareness about cancer prevention, detection, and treatment. Whether you're supporting someone affected by cancer, learning about your own risk factors, or celebrating survivors, this day reminds us of the importance of regular health checks and living a healthy lifestyle. Early detection saves lives, so make sure you're up to date with your cancer screenings.
28 February: Rare Disease Day
Rare Disease Day happens on the rarest day of the year—the last day of February. It's a day to stand with the millions of people worldwide living with rare conditions. Many rare diseases affect the kidneys, and getting a diagnosis can be a long journey. This day raises awareness and pushes for better research and support for those living with conditions that don't always get the attention they deserve.
March 2026
March: National Kidney Month
March is dedicated entirely to kidney health! Your kidneys work hard every day to filter waste from your blood, balance your body's fluids, and keep you healthy. National Kidney Month is the perfect time to learn about your kidney health, get screened if you're at risk, and understand how everyday choices like what you eat and drink affect these vital organs. Look out for free health checks and events in your community.
8 March: International Women's Day
International Women's Day celebrates women's achievements and calls for gender equality across all areas of life, including healthcare. Make time for your health checkups and encourage the women in your life to do the same.
12 March: World Kidney Day
This is the biggest day of the year for kidney health awareness! World Kidney Day encourages everyone to look after their kidneys and get checked if they have risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of kidney disease. Many communities offer free kidney health screenings around this time—it's a simple check that could make a huge difference to your long-term health.
April 2026
7 April: World Health Day
The World Health Organization marks World Health Day with a different theme each year, highlighting major health issues affecting people around the world. It's a reminder that health is a human right and that everyone deserves access to quality healthcare. Whatever this year's theme, it's a good day to think about your own health and what steps you can take to look after yourself better.
May 2026
5 May: International Day of the Midwife
Today we celebrate midwives and the incredible work they do supporting mothers and babies. Pregnancy is a special time but can also affect your kidney health, especially if you have high blood pressure or diabetes. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant and have any kidney concerns, talk to your midwife or doctor—they're there to help keep you and your baby healthy.
17 May: World Hypertension Day
High blood pressure is known as the "silent killer" because it often has no symptoms but can lead to serious health problems including kidney disease, heart disease, and stroke. World Hypertension Day encourages everyone to know their numbers. Getting your blood pressure checked is quick, free, and could save your life. If you haven't had yours checked recently, make today the day you book an appointment.
May (week TBC): Mental Health Awareness Week (UK)
Mental Health Awareness Week reminds us that our mental health is just as important as our physical health. Living with a chronic health condition can take a toll on your mental wellbeing, and it's okay to ask for help. Whether you're supporting someone else or need support yourself, there are resources available. Looking after your mind is looking after your health.
31 May: World No Tobacco Day
If you smoke, World No Tobacco Day is a great opportunity to think about quitting. Smoking doesn't just affect your lungs—it increases your risk of kidney disease, makes existing kidney problems worse, and raises your risk of kidney cancer. Quitting is one of the best things you can do for your overall health, and there's plenty of support available to help you stop for good.
June 2026
14 June: World Blood Donor Day
Blood donors are everyday heroes who save lives. World Blood Donor Day celebrates these generous individuals and encourages more people to donate. If you're healthy and eligible, consider becoming a regular blood donor—you could help someone with kidney disease or many other conditions. It takes less than an hour and could make all the difference to someone in need.
15–21 June: Men's Health Week (UK)
Men's Health Week is all about encouraging men to take their health seriously. Guys, we know you might put off going to the doctor, but regular checkups are important. Men are more likely to develop kidney disease and often don't catch it until it's advanced. This week is your reminder to book that health check, get your blood pressure tested, and talk openly about any health concerns.
18 June: World Kidney Cancer Day
World Kidney Cancer Day raises awareness about kidney cancer and its symptoms. While kidney cancer is less common than some other cancers, catching it early makes a big difference to treatment outcomes. Be aware of symptoms like blood in your urine, persistent pain in your side, unexplained weight loss, or a lump in your abdomen, and see your doctor if you're concerned.
19 June: World Sickle Cell Day
Sickle cell disease affects thousands of people in the UK, particularly those with African or Caribbean heritage. It can cause serious complications including kidney damage. World Sickle Cell Day raises awareness and supports those living with this condition. If you have sickle cell disease, working closely with your healthcare team to monitor your kidney health is important.
21 June: Father's Day (UK)
Happy Father's Day! While you're celebrating the father figures in your life, why not have a conversation about family health history? Some kidney conditions run in families, and knowing your family's health story can help you and your loved ones stay healthy. It might not be the most traditional Father's Day activity, but it's a gift that keeps on giving.
21 June: International Day of Yoga
Yoga is for everyone and offers wonderful benefits for both body and mind. Whether you have kidney disease or are trying to prevent it, gentle movement like yoga can help manage stress, lower blood pressure, and improve your overall wellbeing. You don't need to be flexible or experienced—there are classes for all levels. Why not give it a try today?
July 2026
5 July: NHS Birthday (UK)
The NHS turns another year older! Since 1948, the NHS has provided healthcare free at the point of use, including lifesaving kidney treatments like dialysis and transplants. Today is a day to appreciate our healthcare service and the dedicated staff who work in it. If you've been putting off making an appointment, the NHS is there for you—use it.
28 July: World Hepatitis Day
Hepatitis affects your liver, but it can also impact your kidney health. World Hepatitis Day promotes testing, vaccination, and treatment for viral hepatitis. If you're at risk or have never been tested, speak to your GP. Getting vaccinated against hepatitis is a simple way to protect your health, and treatments have improved dramatically in recent years.
August 2026
31 August: International Overdose Awareness Day
International Overdose Awareness Day remembers those who have lost their lives to drug overdose and supports their families. Substance use can also affect your kidney health, and if you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there is help available. Reach out to your GP or local support services—you don't have to face it alone.
September 2026
10 September: World Suicide Prevention Day
World Suicide Prevention Day reminds us that we all have a role in preventing suicide. If you're struggling with your mental health, please reach out for help. If you're worried about someone else, start a conversation. Living with chronic illness can be isolating and difficult, but support is available. You matter, and there are people who want to help.
September (week TBC): Know Your Numbers! Week
Do you know your blood pressure numbers? During Know Your Numbers! Week, pharmacies and community venues across the UK offer free blood pressure checks. High blood pressure is a leading cause of kidney disease, but it's easy to manage once you know you have it. Five minutes could change your life—get checked.
September (week TBC): Organ Donation Week (UK)
Organ Donation Week encourages people to register as organ donors and talk to their families about their wishes. Thousands of people are waiting for kidney transplants, and donors can transform lives. Have you registered your decision? It takes just two minutes online, and having that conversation with your family ensures your wishes will be respected.
21 September: World Alzheimer's Day
World Alzheimer's Day raises awareness about dementia and supports those affected by it. If you're caring for someone with dementia, don't forget to look after your own health too. There's also growing research linking kidney health to brain health, reminding us that looking after one part of your body benefits the whole.
29 September: World Heart Day
Your heart and kidneys work closely together, so what's good for one is good for the other. World Heart Day promotes heart-healthy living—eating well, staying active, not smoking, and managing conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes. These same habits protect your kidneys too. Small changes can make a big difference to both organs.
October 2026
October: Black History Month (UK)
Black History Month celebrates the contributions and achievements of Black people in Britain and beyond. It's also a time to acknowledge and address health inequalities. People of African and Caribbean heritage face higher rates of certain conditions including kidney disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. This month is about celebrating our community while also prioritizing our health.
October: Stoptober
Stoptober challenges you to quit smoking for 28 days throughout October. If you can make it through the month, you're five times more likely to quit for good. Stopping smoking is one of the best things you can do for your kidneys, heart, lungs, and overall health. Free support is available through the NHS—there's never been a better time to quit.
October: National Cholesterol Month (UK)
Cholesterol matters for your heart and your kidneys. National Cholesterol Month encourages you to get your cholesterol checked and take steps to keep it healthy through diet and exercise. High cholesterol can be managed with lifestyle changes and, if needed, medication. If you haven't had yours checked recently, ask your GP for a test.
10 October: World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day is a reminder that mental health matters. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, or just feeling overwhelmed, it's okay to not be okay, and it's okay to ask for help. Mental and physical health are connected—looking after one helps the other. Reach out to friends, family, or professional services if you need support.
29 October: World Stroke Day
Stroke can happen to anyone at any age. World Stroke Day raises awareness about stroke prevention, recognizing the signs (use FAST: Face, Arms, Speech, Time), and getting emergency help quickly. The same risk factors that cause stroke—high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking—also damage your kidneys. Controlling these risks protects both your brain and kidneys.
November 2026
November: Movember
During Movember, men grow moustaches to raise awareness about men's health issues including prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. It's a fun way to start important conversations about health. Gents, use this month as a reminder to check yourself, see your doctor if something doesn't feel right, and talk openly about your health and feelings.
14 November: World Diabetes Day
Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney disease, making World Diabetes Day incredibly important. If you have diabetes, managing your blood sugar levels protects your kidneys and prevents complications. If you're at risk of diabetes (due to family history, weight, or ethnicity), get screened. Catching diabetes early and managing it well can prevent kidney disease altogether.
Mid-November (week TBC): World Antimicrobial Awareness Week
Antibiotics are powerful medicines, but using them too often or incorrectly can lead to antibiotic resistance, making infections harder to treat. World Antimicrobial Awareness Week promotes using antibiotics responsibly. If you have kidney disease, your doctor may need to adjust antibiotic doses, so always tell healthcare providers about your kidney health.
December 2026
3 December: International Day of Persons with Disabilities
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities promotes the rights and wellbeing of people with disabilities. Living with kidney disease can be disabling, and everyone deserves healthcare that's accessible and inclusive. This day is about ensuring that all people, regardless of ability, can access the services and support they need.
12 December: Universal Health Coverage Day
Universal Health Coverage Day advocates for everyone, everywhere to have access to quality healthcare without financial hardship. Healthcare is a human right, not a privilege. Whether it's kidney care or any other health service, no one should have to choose between their health and their financial security. This day reminds us to value and protect our healthcare systems.
We hope this calendar helps you stay connected to important health awareness days throughout 2026. Whether you participate in campaigns, attend events, or simply use these dates as reminders to look after yourself and your loved ones, every small step towards better health matters. Here's to a healthy 2026!
