Over the past five years, Brevia Health’s Disease Profile Tracker reveals an interesting and consistent pattern: a drop in the discussion of the leading diseases every January. This coincides with the lack of significant advocacy campaigns taking place in January compared to other months.
The Tracker examines the Top 20 diseases[1] discussed in the UK Parliament. This offers a unique insight into which diseases are being examined by UK Parliamentarians and advocacy initiatives that can trigger interest.
For Blood Cancer, mentions in January 2025 were 33 per cent lower than the average monthly mentions in 2024. This lull presents a unique opportunity for advocacy groups and stakeholders to step in and command attention when the stage is less crowded.
Parkinson’s disease mentions were three times lower in January 2024 compared to the monthly average for the year and nearly eight times lower compared to peak advocacy months for the disease, such as April. Similarly, discussions around Colon Cancer in January 2024 were six times lower than the monthly average, reflecting a general decrease in political examination of the major diseases at the start of the year.
Why January is the Perfect Advocacy Window
By ramping up advocacy efforts in January, a campaign has a great opportunity to capture the attention of parliamentarians and raise awareness for a disease compared to other months in the year.
Leveraging the New Year for Strong Messaging
The beginning of a new year is also a powerful time for advocacy campaigns. Policymakers, just like the public, often reflect on the past year and set priorities for the future. This moment presents a significant opportunity to push for policy commitments and strategic health goals for the year ahead.
By framing discussions around the theme of ‘making this year count’, advocacy efforts can leverage the natural momentum of fresh starts and improvement. Messaging that emphasises building on past progress, addressing gaps and setting ambitious targets align well with the New Year’s mindset.
A Call to Action for Campaigners
January should not be seen as a ‘dry’ month for advocacy – it should be a launchpad for impactful discussions that set the stage for policy action throughout the year. For charities that struggle to get cut through with a less common disease, January offers a golden opportunity to get the attention you desire.
[1] By cause of mortality as ranked by the Office for National Statistics’ monthly mortality analysis for England and Wales, The Office for National Statistics, ‘Monthly mortality analysis, England and Wales: December 2022’, link
