This is why the theme of this year’s World Lupus Day is this: “Make Lupus Visible.” World Lupus Day, celebrated on May 10, was established in 2004 by the Lupus Foundation of America on the occasion of the 7th International Congress on Lupus and Related Diseases, and it’s a yearly opportunity to call attention to the impact that lupus has on people around the world, an impact that often goes unmentioned or underestimated. A recent global survey conducted by the World Lupus Federation revealed some worrying data:• Half of the survey participants (50 percent) reported decreased access to at least one aspect of lupus health care in the last three months due to the COVID-19 pandemic;• 36 percent reported decreased access to their lupus doctor/rheumatologist;• 29 percent reported decreased access to medical tests for lupus;• 24 percent reported decreased access to infusions for lupus;• 17 percent reported decreased access to lupus medications. Because of the lack of awareness about lupus, many do not understand how those with lupus are at an even more vulnerable position during the pandemic. Lupus is a difficult condition to manage, but from my own experience I know that it is possible if you have help. The Hope for Lupus Foundation provides support to people with lupus and their families.

Source: Philippine Star May 10, 2021 15:56 UTC