Every year on May 10th, people around the globe come together to observe World Lupus Day. This significant health commemoration is dedicated to increasing public understanding of lupus, a long-term autoimmune disease that can affect everything from skin and joints to vital organs. On this day, communities worldwide band together to promote the need for proper care and assistance for those battling lupus, underlining the critical need for ongoing research towards finding a cure.
Through a series of activities, events, and campaigns, World Lupus Day underscores the joint global impact of this often-underestimated health condition.
History of World Lupus Day
World Lupus Day began its annual observance on May 10th, 2004. This global initiative was kick-started by various lupus organizations and was backed by many governments globally. The primary goal was, and still is, to increase public awareness about lupus and educate professionals in the health industry, as well as the broader public, about its impact, prevention, and the crucial need for further medical research.
This initiative was started by Lupus Canada, which received assistance and cooperation from lupus organizations in various countries. They proposed this day as a global observance to raise awareness about this potentially life-threatening disease. Now, numerous nations worldwide participate in World Lupus Day by hosting events dedicated to improving public understanding and demonstrating unity with those who suffer from the disease.
Every year on World Lupus Day, organizations worldwide join hands, aiming to eradicate lupus. With around 5 million people affected by this autoimmune disease globally, it’s mainly women of reproductive age who are affected. As lupus is still not well-understood and lacks a definite cure, increased awareness and action could greatly benefit those living with lupus.
World Lupus Day Timeline
Definition Expansion
Pierre Cazenave expands definition of lupus erythematosus and described various sub-types of disease.
Introduction of Cortisone
Cortisone is introduced as a treatment for lupus and dramatically reduces mortality rate from the disease.
Increased Research
Growing understanding of lupus as an autoimmune disease spurs increased research and development of treatments.
FDA Approval of Benlysta
The FDA approves Benlysta, the first drug developed specifically for lupus in over 50 years.
First Celebration of World Lupus Day
The first World Lupus Day was marked on 10th May 2004 by lupus organizations around the world.
Ongoing Research
Medical research continues to evolve treatment and management strategies, and to investigate the genetic and environmental triggers of lupus.
Ideas to Celebrate World Lupus Day
Awareness Walk
Organize a community awareness walk or run. This would not only shed light on the condition but also promote a healthier lifestyle, which is beneficial for lupus sufferers.
Fundraising Event
Host a charity event like a concert, bake sale, or a flea market. The funds raised can be donated to a local charity that supports lupus research or provides support for those with lupus.
Educational Seminar
Partner with healthcare professionals to facilitate an online seminar or forum about lupus. Topics could include early detection, recent medical developments, and coping strategies for patients.
Information campaign
Print leaflets, posters, and other informational materials about lupus to distribute in your community. Make sure to include symptoms and getting help.
Virtual Panel Discussion
Invite experts, patients, and caregivers to discuss the day-to-day life, challenges, and victories of people living with lupus in a virtual interactive session.
7 Interesting Facts About Lupus
Not Just a Human Disease
Lupus is not only found in humans, but also in mammals such as dogs and cats. Most commonly, it appears in dogs, and like in humans, there is no cure, but symptoms can be managed.
DNA Triggers
In some cases, exposure to the sun's UV rays can trigger lupus symptoms, and in fact, this is because UV light causes cells to die. The body's response to the dead cells can stimulate an immune response that includes lupus flare-ups.
Kidney Complications
Lupus often affects the kidneys, a condition known as lupus nephritis, affecting about 1 in 3 people with lupus. If untreated, this can lead to severe complications.
Nicknamed 'The Great Imitator'
Lupus is sometimes called 'The Great Imitator' because its symptoms are often like those of other diseases— including thyroid problems, fibromyalgia, Lyme disease, diabetes, and a number of heart, lung, muscle, and bone diseases.
Lupus Celebrities
Several celebrities live with lupus and use their platforms to raise awareness. These include singer Selena Gomez, who underwent a kidney transplant due to lupus nephritis, and actress Kristen Johnston.
Affects Women More
Lupus affects women nine times more frequently than men. The hormone estrogen is thought to play a role in this, but the exact reason for why women are more affected is yet to be confirmed.
Unpredictable Nature
Lupus is known for its unpredictability. A person may have no symptoms for a long time and then have a sudden flare-up. The disease also varies widely in its severity; some people have mild cases, while others have severe and life-threatening complications.
World Lupus Day FAQs
Next World Lupus Day Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | May 10th | Wednesday |
| 2024 | May 10th | Friday |
| 2025 | May 10th | Saturday |
| 2026 | May 10th | Sunday |
| 2027 | May 10th | Monday |
| What is the pattern? | Every May 10th | |
World Lupus Day Word Search
- Lupus
- Awareness
- Autoimmune
- Diagnosis
- Disease
- Treatment