World Lupus Day

May 10 is the 5th annual observance of World Lupus Day - a day which brings global awareness to a disease that affects more than 5 million people worldwide. Lupus is a potentially life-threatening autoimmune disease. In lupus, the immune system of the body attacks its own cells and tissues. The joints, skin, kidneys, lungs, heart, nervous system, and other organs of the body are affected -- no organ is spared. Lupus is a disease that targets a group of people who otherwise should be healthy -- individuals between the ages of 15 and 44. The disease often goes unrecognized because its primary symptoms -- joint pain, fatigue, skin rashes, and fevers -- mimic many other common illnesses.

There is no cure for lupus and there have been no new drugs for the disease in over 40 years. Medications used to control lupus are borrowed from other diseases. Early detection, diagnosis and treatment of lupus can help to slow the debilitating effects of the disease. Improving awareness of lupus symptoms will save lives. Lupus is under-recognized as a global health problem. Governments are recognizing the need for more funding and services to battle the disease. Lupus research and efforts to develop safer and more effective treatments are under-funded in comparison with diseases of comparable magnitude and severity. Lupus organizations such as the Lupus Foundation of America are working towards increasing public awareness and educating patients and health professionals about the disease.

Related Resources:

• Lupus at About.com
• Lupus Screening Quiz
• Fast Facts About Lupus
• Test Your Knowledge: Lupus
• 10 Things You Should Know About Lupus

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