World Lupus Day is commemorated annually on May 10. It was designed to help us acknowledge that the seemingly random symptoms are a debilitating, chronic autoimmune disease. Lupus remains a complex condition that is still widely misunderstood by the public and even medical professionals. A lupus diagnosis can be quite difficult as the symptoms often mimic other diseases. The predominant symptom is a facial rash that typically looks like the unfolding wings of a butterfly spread across the cheeks.
History of World Lupus Day
Lupus Canada established World Lupus Day in 2004 to promote awareness about the little-known disorder that can have a tragic impact on individuals who suffer as well as their families. It was organized by lupus organizations from 13 nations, who urged their authorities to increase research funding, improve patient services, collect more incidence rates, and raise awareness. The purpose of World Lupus Day is to draw attention to the impact that lupus has on individuals all around the globe. The annual observance emphasizes the need for enhanced care health services, increased research in the area and treatment for lupus, earlier care and management of lupus, and better global epidemiological data on lupus.
Lupus causes the immune system to overreact, producing antibodies that attack healthy cells, resulting in pain, inflammation, and damage to the body. Although lupus can be life-threatening, there is no known cure at this time. Unfortunately, the vast majority of people are unaware of lupus, frequently mistaking it for arthritis, a far less deadly illness. Many people are unaware that lupus exists until they or someone they know is diagnosed with it. This is the issue that World Lupus Day was created to address. Lupus is a disease that weakens the immune system. Normally, the immune system generates antibodies to keep the body healthy from these invaders. Lupus causes the body to produce autoantibodies, which utterly destroy healthy cells. These autoantibodies cause irritation, pain, and tissue injury throughout the body.
World Lupus Day timeline
Lupus (‘wolf’ in Latin) is named after the signature rash, which is said to resemble a wolf's bite.
The first published illustrations of ‘lupus erythematous’ are included in von Hebra's text, “Atlas of Skin Diseases.”
The first reports of the usefulness of quinine in the treatment of lupus are recorded.
Lupus Canada creates World Lupus Day to spread awareness about this disease.
World Lupus Day FAQs
How can you get lupus?
Lupus is most likely caused by a combination of your genetics and your environment.
How can I raise awareness on World Lupus Day?
You can help to raise awareness by hosting a World Lupus Day coffee morning on May 10.
Is lupus classified as a disability?
According to the Social Security Administration, severe lupus symptoms might hinder you from getting gainful employment or working full-time, making it a disability.
How to Observe World Lupus Day
Wear the color purple
The color purple is associated with World Lupus Day. People can show their support by wearing purple clothing or purchasing special wristbands that say 'Help Us Solve the Cruel Mystery.'
Sign the awareness pledge
You can also go to World Lupus Day's official website and sign an awareness pledge. This means you agree to help the medical community and politicians pay more attention to the plight of those affected by lupus.
Donate
Don't worry if you can't afford to donate much. Every dollar counts.
5 Important Facts About Lupus
Lupus is an autoimmune disorder
Nobody knows what causes lupus but doctors do understand that the symptoms appear when your immune system isn't working properly.
Lupus can be diagnosed at any age
Women of reproductive age — between 15 and 44 — are often diagnosed but the disease is not limited to young adults.
Race is a risk factor
People of African descent are more likely to develop lupus and the disease impacts different populations differently.
There is no cure for lupus
At this time, scientists have not discovered a cure for lupus.
Widespread
Over 1.5 million people in the U.S. are affected by lupus according to the Lupus Foundation of America.
Why World Lupus Day is Important
It raises awareness
The goal of World Lupus Day is to raise awareness and inform people about lupus. Early detection can be improved with information and can potentially save lives.
It gives people hope and encouragement
Lupus has no cure. World Lupus Day brings people together and demonstrates to sufferers that they are not alone in their battle.
It encourages further research
Lupus needs to be thoroughly researched to find a cause and a cure so that it can be treated more effectively. More research will hopefully aid in the early detection and better treatment plans.
World Lupus Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | May 10 | Friday |
| 2025 | May 10 | Saturday |
| 2026 | May 10 | Sunday |
| 2027 | May 10 | Monday |
| 2028 | May 10 | Wednesday |
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