National Eosinophil Awareness Week: Shining a Light on Eosinophilic Esophagitis and Related Conditions
Each year, during the third week of May, we observe National Eosinophil Awareness Week (NEAW)—a time dedicated to raising awareness about eosinophil-associated diseases, including Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE). This year, NEAW is observed from May 18–24, 2025, with World Eosinophilic Diseases Day on May 18 and the inaugural World EoE Day on May 22 .
Why NEAW Matters
Despite being recognized for nearly two decades, eosinophil-associated diseases remain underdiagnosed and misunderstood. National Eosinophil Awareness Week (NEAW) serves as an opportunity to:
- Educate the public and healthcare professionals about these conditions.
- Unite patients, caregivers, and advocates to share experiences and support.
- Advocate for better research funding, treatments, and insurance coverage.
- Raise Awareness through community events and social media campaigns.
A Note on Food and Joy
This week holds deep personal meaning for me because I live with Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE). I wasn’t diagnosed until my late 30s, after years of unexplained symptoms, doctor visits, and frustration. Finally having a name for what I was experiencing brought both relief and a new set of challenges. EoE impacts how I eat, how I plan my days, and how I show up for my family—but it’s also taught me to listen to my body and advocate for myself in ways I never had to before. Sharing about EoE isn’t always easy, but I hope that by speaking up, I can help someone else feel seen, supported, or even get the diagnosis they’ve been searching for.
Living with EoE hasn’t taken the joy of food away from me—it’s just changed how I approach it. I’ve learned to be more intentional, to listen to my body, and to get creative in the kitchen. Food is still how I show love, connect with my family, and celebrate life… and I want that to shine through in every recipe I share.
Understanding Eosinophil-Associated Diseases
Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell involved in allergic responses and combating certain infections. In eosinophil-associated diseases, these cells accumulate in various parts of the body, leading to inflammation and tissue damage. EoE, for instance, is characterized by eosinophils building up in the esophagus, causing symptoms like difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and food impaction .
Common Symptoms of Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE)
One of the biggest challenges with EoE is that symptoms can vary from person to person. Some people experience food getting stuck in their throat, others might deal with frequent heartburn that doesn’t respond to traditional treatment. For many—myself included—the symptoms were confusing for years. Some common signs include:
- Trouble swallowing (especially dry or dense foods)
- Chest pain or discomfort after eating
- Food impaction (food getting stuck in the esophagus)
- Chronic acid reflux not relieved by medication
- In children: failure to thrive, picky eating, or feeding aversion
If any of this sounds familiar to you or someone you love, it’s worth starting a conversation with a healthcare provider. Diagnosing EoE often requires a specialist and an upper endoscopy with a biopsy, so self-advocacy is key.
How You Can Participate
- Wear Magenta: The official color for NEAW is magenta (#841d57). Donning this color can spark conversations and show solidarity.
- Share Your Story: Personal experiences can be powerful tools for awareness. Consider sharing your journey on social media using hashtags like #NEAW and #EosAware.
- Educate Others: Utilize resources from organizations like the American Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders (APFED) to inform your community .
- Support Research: Donations to organizations focused on eosinophil-associated diseases can accelerate the development of new treatments.
Resources for Further Information
National Eosinophil Awareness Week (NEAW) is more than just a week on the calendar; it’s a movement to bring visibility to conditions that many live with silently. By participating, sharing, and educating, we can foster a more informed and compassionate community for those affected by eosinophil-associated diseases.