World Ostomy Day takes place every three years on the first Saturday of October. The next one will be held on Saturday, October 4, 2025, under the motto: “Invisible Disabilities: Visible Support – The Global Unity of Ostomates.”
This theme highlights the often-hidden reality of living with an ostomy while calling for visible support, open conversation, global awareness, and equity for ostomy communities worldwide.
The day was first established in 1993 by Professor Dr. Gerhard Englert, then President of the International Ostomy Association, with the goal of raising public awareness and improving quality of life for people living with a stoma.
Over time, the event has also become known as Ostomy Awareness Day, though its mission and motto remain the same.