According to some news sites, October is Lupus Awareness month, however according to lupus.org, the awareness month is in May. Whenever the awareness month, we felt it would be a good idea to try and educate others about the disease. According to Lupus.org, Lupus is an unpredictable disease – its symptoms can appear, disappear, and reappear in those who are affected by it.
In an interview with Billboard magazine, entertainer Selena Gomez has for the first time publicly confirmed that she has lupus and has been “going through chemotherapy.” Fans may be surprised to hear chemotherapy mentioned in association with the treatment of lupus and wonder whether lupus has a connection to cancer. In fact, this is a common misconception.
In an interview with Billboard magazine, entertainer Selena Gomez has for the first time publicly confirmed that she has lupus and has been “going through chemotherapy.” Fans may be surprised to hear chemotherapy mentioned in association with the treatment of lupus and wonder whether lupus has a connection to cancer. In fact, this is a common misconception.
Lupus can range from mild to life-threatening and should always be treated by a doctor who is knowledgeable and experienced with managing a disease that is as unpredictable and diverse as lupus. However, with good medical care, most people with lupus can lead a full life.
Another misconception about lupus is that it is related to HIV/AIDS. Lupus is not like or related to HIV (Human Immune Deficiency Virus) or AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). In HIV or AIDS the immune system is underactive; in lupus, the immune system is overactive.
Lupus strikes mostly women of childbearing age (15-44). However, men, children, and teenagers can also develop lupus. Lupus is two to three times more prevalent among non-Caucasians. Learn more about lupus.
The Lupus Foundation of America estimates that an estimated 1.5 million Americans and at least 5 million people worldwide are living with lupus. Learn more at lupus.org.
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