Lupus, also known as Systemic
Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), is a chronic autoimmune disease where the body’s
immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues and organs.
This attack causes inflammation,
which can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, joints,
kidneys, blood cells, brain, heart, and lungs.
Lupus is caused by a combination of genetic
and environmental factors, however, the exact cause is unknown. Certain factors
are believed to trigger the disease in individuals with a predisposition.
The common signs of the disease include
joint pain, fever, and a characteristic butterfly-shaped rash on the face.
Other symptoms may include fatigue, hair loss, mouth sores, and sensitivity to
sunlight.
Lupus is not a contagious disease
and cannot be transmitted from one person to another through physical contact
or other means.
Although many people are unaware of
it, the lack of knowledge leads to misconceptions, negative stereotypes and stigmatisation.
World Lupus Day was established in
2004 by the Lupus Foundation of America and was later solidified by the World Lupus
Federation(WLF) to highlight the global impact of lupus.
It is celebrated annually every May 10 as a global event focused on raising awareness about lupus.
WLF and its affiliated organisations
coordinate efforts to raise awareness, provide education, and support people
living with lupus.
The celebration is aimed at uniting
lupus organisations and individuals affected by the disease, advocating for
improved patient healthcare, increased research and better understanding of
lupus.
It is normally marked by affected people
sharing their personal stories, sharing of facts about lupus on social media
using hashtags like #WorldLupusDay and #MakeLupusVisible and wearing purple
items to symbolise World Lupus Day and promote awareness.
The Kenyan government also
acknowledges the importance of Lupus Awareness Month and makes efforts to
educate the public and support those living with the condition.
Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) commemorated
World Lupus Day today, May 21, 2025 as they joined the Autoimmune Disease
Warriors (Lupus Warriors), their caregivers, and members of the community at
Chandaria Chronic and Cancer Disease Centre (CCCDC) for the commemoration.