World Mitochondrial Disease Week, held from Monday 15 to Sunday 21 September 2025, raises awareness about mitochondrial diseases (mito). It aims to improve the lives of people affected by mito and to increase awareness among doctors and the general public.
What is Mitochondrial Disease?
Most people have never heard of mitochondrial diseases. It is thought to affect 1 in 5000 people, making it the second most commonly diagnosed, serious genetic disease after cystic fibrosis. Researchers have discovered links between mitochondrial dysfunction and other conditions including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, cardiac issues and some cancers.
Scientists believe that by focusing on mitochondrial dysfunction, they may be able to devise effective treatments and potential cures for mito and help the millions of people who suffer from the above-mentioned diseases.
Mark your calendars for the 15 - 21 September 2025
and take part in World Mitochondrial Disease Week 2025!
Be creative and share with each other about Mito Week, spread the word amongst your friends, family and others.
Post your events using the form on our website and use social media to make your personal Mito Week a success, don’t forget to use the official hashtags #WorldMitoWeek2025 and #DecodeTheMitoPuzzle so everyone can see your contribution!
This year's World Mitochondrial Disease Week official theme is:
Decode the Mito Puzzle – Bridging Science and Symptoms
Mitochondrial diseases are a complex set of conditions that are often misunderstood. Because symptoms vary widely and are linked to individual genetic changes, each patient presents a unique medical puzzle. This year’s theme focuses on connecting scientific understanding with the lived experiences of patients to improve diagnosis, care, and long-term outcomes.
The campaign raises awareness of the vital role genetics plays in mitochondrial diseases, the importance of early detection and testing, and the promise of new research. By translating science into real-world solutions, we can empower families, support clinicians, and bring hope to everyone affected by mitochondrial diseases.
Key messages
1
The Complexity of Mitochondrial Diseases
Mitochondrial diseases manifest differently in every patient, making it a unique and complex puzzle to solve.
Common symptoms include muscle weakness, fatigue, vision and hearing loss, heart problems, and developmental delays.
2
Connecting mito to Daily Life
Mitochondria play a crucial role in energy production; disruptions can lead to a wide range of symptoms affecting the entire body.
Mito can affect any organ and cause any symptoms at any age.
3
Advancing Science for Better Care
Breakthroughs in mitochondrial research are paving the way for innovative therapies and early detection.
Research into genetic testing, mitochondrial replacement therapy, and pharmacological advancements offers hope for future treatments.
4
From Awareness to Action
Raising awareness about mitochondrial diseases encourages earlier diagnoses, better management, and increased research funding. Empowering patients and caregivers with knowledge can lead to improved quality of life and proactive health management.
5
Bridging the Gap Between Science and Symptoms
Educating the public about the genetic basis of mitochondrial diseases helps demystify its symptoms and challenges. Collaboration between researchers, clinicians, and patients is key to translating scientific discoveries into real-world impact.
6
The Role of Early Detection and Genetic Testing
Early diagnosis through genetic testing can guide treatment decisions and support better care.
7
Hope Through Research
Ongoing studies into mitochondrial function offer hope for reversing and mitigating disease symptoms.
By solving the "mito puzzle," researchers can unlock new pathways for a healthier future.
TK2d Awareness Day
Save the Date for TK2d Awareness Day - Tuesday 9 September
Thymidine kinase 2 deficiency (TK2d) is a debilitating and life-threatening genetic disease that causes progressive and severe muscle weakness.
Many patients lose the ability to walk, eat, and breathe independently.
1 in 5,000 people have some form of this genetic mitochondrial disease. Prevalence of TK2d itself is still being researched.
Join us in raising awareness for TK2d.
Learn more about TK2d and download our infographic
LHON Awareness Day
Mark your calendars for LHON Awareness Day - Friday 19 September!
LHON stands for Leber’s Hereditary Optic Neuropathy. It is a type of mito caused by a change in the function of mitochondria, which are the energy producing organelles.
In LHON the optic nerve is particularly vulnerable to mitochondrial defects because of the high-energy requirements and the need to keep the retina transparent to light.
LHON has a prevalence of 1/25,000 to 1/50,000 and it is more frequent in males.
Help us shine a light on LHON, which affects many lives.
