Yesterday was apparently the first ever Mastocytosis and Mast Cell Disease Awareness Day!
This is extremely exciting. Considering Dr. Afrin estimates it could be affecting as much as 17% of the US population (adding up undiagnosed patients with similar symptoms as well as unexplained diseases like fibromyalgia and ME/CFS), almost no one knows about it. Most doctors and researchers have never heard of it, and there certainly isn't an abundance of funding for MCAS research. Awareness is very needed. Interestingly, this international awareness day wasn't started in the US, but it has taken root among the mast cell patient population here nonetheless.
So, in honor of this day, here are some great sources to learn more!
The official website for the awareness day, including info about the logo/ribbon, mast cells, and how to get involved globally.
Mast Cell Action -- a great "about MCAS" page, support, and ways to get involved.
Dr. Tania Dempsey is a doctor who practices integrative medicine. She has become one of the (few) MCAS experts and is now teamed up with Dr. Afrin to focus on MCAS research! I like her page on the importance of integrative medicine, as well as her description of MCAS (very full symptom list).
I stumbled upon Dr Dempsey through this article (quite good!). She also has a blog with cool topics like "10 Ways to Present MCAS to Your Doctor to Get Them to Listen"
If you know anyone with chemical sensitivities, fibromyalgia, IBS, ME/CFS, or unexplained allergic reactions (or allergies to things like sun, temperature, or a million foods...), consider asking if they've looked into MCAS! It could be the answer they've been looking for!