CBF backs International Angelman Syndrome Day during the Brasileirão | OneFootball

CBF Supports International Angelman Syndrome Day During BrasileirãoCredits: CBF and Angelman Brasil

For the first time, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) joins Angelman Brasil in a national awareness campaign about Angelman Syndrome, a rare and still little-known genetic condition.

The initiative takes place during the 3rd round of Brasileirão Betano 2026, with a video displayed on the stadium LEDs, bringing information and visibility to millions of fans across the country.

The action is part of the mobilizations for International Angelman Syndrome Day, celebrated on February 15, reinforcing the role of football as an agent of social transformation, inclusion, and access to information.

About International Angelman Syndrome Day

International Angelman Syndrome Day is celebrated annually on February 15 and aims to raise awareness, promote early diagnosis, and strengthen support for people with Angelman and their families.

The choice of date has two important meanings:

February is globally recognized as the month of rare diseases and syndromes • The 15th refers to chromosome 15, where the genetic alteration associated with Angelman Syndrome occurs

Since its inception, the date has mobilized associations, families, and institutions in various countries.

Light It Blue: illuminate in blue for visibility

One of the main global actions of International Day is the “Light It Blue” movement.

The campaign invites people and organizations to:

• Illuminate monuments, stadiums, and public buildings in blue • Wear blue clothing or accessories

• Share awareness messages about Angelman Syndrome

Blue is the symbol color of the syndrome and represents visibility, unity, and hope. The participation of CBF, with the message broadcast in Brasileirão stadiums, integrates Brazil into this international movement.

“International Angelman Syndrome Day is of great importance for Brazil and the world, as it promotes awareness of this rare genetic condition and strengthens the pursuit of scientific and therapeutic advances that improve the quality of life for diagnosed individuals. Partnerships like this with CBF are essential to expand the reach of information through football,” says Carol Aguiar, founder and president of Angelman Brasil and mother of Liora, who lives with the syndrome.

About Angelman Syndrome

Angelman Syndrome is a rare genetic condition that primarily affects neurological development. It occurs due to an alteration in the UBE3A gene, located on the maternal chromosome 15. The syndrome is not contagious and is not related to external factors during pregnancy.

Main characteristics include:

• Developmental delay

• Little or no speech

• Motor and balance difficulties

• Epilepsy

• Intellectual disability

• Cheerful behavior, with frequent smiles and strong social interest

Because it is still little known, the syndrome can be confused with other conditions, such as cerebral palsy or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which can delay diagnosis.

How many people live with Angelman Syndrome?

Angelman Syndrome affects about 1 in every 15,000 people.

• Worldwide estimate: approximately 500,000 people

• Estimate in Brazil: approximately 13,000 people

These numbers emphasize the importance of national and international awareness and information campaigns.

About Angelman Brasil

Angelman Brasil is a non-profit association formed by families, volunteers, and professionals, dedicated to supporting people with Angelman Syndrome, promoting quality information, encouraging scientific research, and advocating for rights and public policies.

The organization operates throughout the country through educational actions, events, awareness campaigns, and direct support to families, as well as integrating international networks focused on rare diseases.

The partnership with CBF represents an important milestone to increase the visibility of Angelman Syndrome in Brazil, using the reach of football — a national passion — to promote knowledge, inclusion, and respect.

More information at: www.angelmanbrasil.org.br

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.