The number of people affected by sepsis is staggering. The Global Sepsis Alliance (GSA) estimates that somewhere between 33% to 50% of all septic patients die because of the disease and that it will claim the lives of more than 6 million young children per year. Indeed, the GSA explains that sepsis kills more people than prostate and breast cancer and HIV/AIDS combined. Despite these statistics there remains little awareness of the disease, much less any major, wide-reaching action to tackle its effects.

To try and rectify this, the GSA together with several global not-for-profit organisations have formed a coalition to launch the very first World Sepsis Day on Thursday 13th September. This unique opportunity aims to highlight sepsis to healthcare workers and the wider public via several local events, and later via the gradual introduction of preventative and therapeutic strategies. Through the use of these measures, the coalition aims to have reduced worldwide sepsis occurrences by 20% by the year 2020.

In support of the day, Editor-in-Chief of Critical Care, Professor Jean-Louis Vincent, has written an editorial describing why this initiative is so important. From the often startling lack of understanding to the strides general society must take in combating the disease, Professor Vincent reiterates the intentions of the day and the importance of carrying the momentum already generated through to the rest of the year.

More information can be found on the World Sepsis Day website.

Surayya Johar – In-house Editor, Critical Care